Statins pioneer Akira Endo dies aged 90
The Japanese scientist Akira Endo, whose groundbreaking work led to the development of statins—life-saving drugs used by millions—has died at the age of 90.
Endo’s pioneering contributions have been compared to the discovery of penicillin.
Inspired by Alexander Fleming’s penicillin discovery, Endo studied mold and fungi in his search for new medicines.
In 1973, he discovered the first cholesterol-lowering compound, which significantly reduced the risk of heart disease and strokes.
Professor Bryan Williams, chief scientific and medical officer at the British Heart Foundation, paid tribute to Endo, describing him as “a remarkable scientist.”
“This was truly the precursor to the development of statin drugs,” Williams told BBC News, adding, “They have absolutely transformed the prevention of heart disease and stroke.”
“There are very few medical treatments in recent years that have had such a dramatic impact.”
Unlike Fleming, however, Endo did not receive a Nobel Prize for his discovery.
“Amazingly, the man who initiated the work on tackling the problem of cholesterol—and provided a treatment that benefited and saved the lives of many millions—never received the prize,” said Williams. “I think that’s a shame.”
Today, doctors routinely prescribe statins to individuals who have had a heart attack or are at high risk of heart disease or stroke, with the drugs estimated to save countless lives.
thousands of lives each year in the UK alone, and even more worldwide.
Cholesterol is a fatty material, chiefly made in the liver, which is carried and transported in the blood.
People need some cholesterol to maintain good health, but too much “bad” cholesterol can clog the arteries and interrupt blood flow.
Statins help lower “bad” cholesterol in the blood and keep the vessels clear of any fatty build-up.
