Google Doodle Honors Casimir Funk, the Man Behind Vitamins

Jace Dela Cruz, Tech Times 24 February 2024, 07:02 am

Google Doodle recently paid tribute to Casimir Funk, the Polish-American biochemist credited with introducing the concept of vitamins to the world.

Funk, born Kazimierz Funk on February 23, 1884, proposed the term "vital amines" to describe these essential nutrients integral to human health and well-being.

(Photo : Google)

Google Paid Tribute to Casimir Funk, the Man Behind Vitamins

According to Google, Funk's groundbreaking work in biochemistry and nutrition revolutionized our understanding of vitamins' role in preventing and treating various diseases. He paved the way for advancements in medical science and public health by identifying key vitamins and their sources.

Growing up in Poland, Funk displayed a keen interest in science from an early age. He pursued further studies in biology and chemistry in Switzerland after completing his high school education, earning his PhD in organic chemistry from the University of Bern at just 20 years old.

Subsequently, Funk embarked on a prolific research career, working at esteemed institutions across Europe. Funk's curiosity led him to investigate the relationship between food ingredients and diseases such as scurvy, cancer, pellagra, and rickets.

In 1911, he conducted experiments with a substance known as B1 (thiamine), which he synthesized into ingestible crystals that promoted cellular growth and function.

He coined the term "vitamines," derived from the Latin words for life (vita) and amine (a chemical compound containing an amino group), to describe these vital substances. The term was eventually shortened to "vitamin."

In 1915, Funk immigrated to the United States and became a naturalized citizen in 1920. He continued his research in the US, holding positions at various universities and serving as a consultant to the US Vitamin Corporation.

Over the years, Funk made significant contributions to the field of nutrition, identifying additional vitamins and their dietary sources.

'Die Vitamine'

Funk's seminal work laid the foundation for further scientific discoveries in nutrition and medicine. His book, "Die Vitamine," published in 1912, provided a comprehensive overview of his research findings and spurred scientific inquiry into the role of vitamins in human health.

Subsequent studies by researchers worldwide led to the identification of 13 different vitamins over the next few decades, enabling humanity to combat diseases such as scurvy and enhance overall well-being.

"Casimir Funk was a remarkable individual whose life left an indelible mark on the field of science, particularly in the realm of biochemistry and nutrition. From his family's perspective, Casimir was a driven and curious child, always eager to explore the world around him," the Funk Estate said in a statement.

"Growing up, he exhibited a keen intellect and an insatiable thirst for knowledge. He pursued his education with passion despite facing obstacles as a Jewish student in Europe during a time of rising anti-Semitism. Casimir persevered and earned his doctorate," it added.

Funk passed away in 1967 in Albany, New York. However, his legacy endures through his groundbreaking discoveries and the countless lives he has touched. So the next time you take your vitamins, remember that Funk made this daily supplement possible.