John Jacob Abel (1857–1938) was a notable American biochemist credited with significant contributions to the field. His pioneering work in the late 19th and early 20th centuries left a lasting impact on the understanding of physiological processes. Abel’s research focused on the chemical composition of body tissues.
In 1898, Abel achieved a groundbreaking milestone by discovering adrenaline, which he referred to as epinephrine. This marked the identification of the first hormone, a crucial development in the field of endocrinology. Adrenaline, or epinephrine, plays a vital role in the body’s “fight or flight” response, influencing various physiological responses to stress.
Abel’s contributions extended beyond adrenaline discovery. He also made history by being the first to isolate amino acids from blood, further advancing the understanding of the body’s biochemical makeup. John Jacob Abel’s work laid the foundation for future research in endocrinology and biochemistry, making him a key figure in the history of scientific exploration.