History of Biomedical Research - Pre-1900's    

The self-regulating nature of the body's chemical reactions was first recognized by the French physiologist, Claude Bernard (illustrated, right).

His findings, based on many experiments with animals such as rabbits, laid the basis for modern physiology.

Animal Research Was Essential in the Following Developments:

• Initial development of blood transfusions
• Treatment for anthrax
• Treatment for rabies
• Cure for beriberi (leading to the discovery of vitamins)
• Initial testing for tuberculosis
• Treatment for smallpox (vaccination)
• Initial understanding of malaria transmission
• Understanding of the physiology of digestion
• Understanding of the need for oxygen in respiration
• Initial understanding of the function of neurons
• Conquest of yellow fever
• Development of diphtheria antiserum
• Discovery of parathyroid gland
• First antiseptic surgical techniques developed
• First cataract surgeries