Sune Bergstrom (10 January 1916 – 15 August 2004) was a Swedish biochemist who made significant contributions to the field of immunology.
Life and Career
Sune Bergstrom was born on 10 January 1916, in Stockholm, Sweden.
He earned his medical degree from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm in 1940. He continued his studies in biochemistry and completed his Ph.D. at the same institution in 1944.
Bergström’s most notable contributions were in the field of prostaglandin research. Prostaglandins are hormone-like molecules that play a crucial role in various physiological processes, including inflammation, blood flow regulation, and reproductive functions. Bergström, along with his colleagues, conducted groundbreaking research that helped elucidate the structure, biosynthesis, and functions of prostaglandins.
Their work led to the discovery of various enzymes involved in prostaglandin synthesis, including the identification of prostacyclin, a molecule that inhibits blood clotting and promotes blood vessel dilation. This discovery had significant implications for cardiovascular research and the development of anti-inflammatory drugs.
Sune Bergstrom passed away on 15 August 2004, in Sweden.
Award and Legacy
In 1982, Sune Bergström, Bengt I. Samuelsson, and John R. Vane were jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their research on prostaglandins and related substances.
Bergström’s legacy continues to influence the fields of biochemistry, immunology, and pharmaceutical research. His work paved the way for the development of medications targeting prostaglandin pathways, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).