Scientific Contributions to Neurophysiology by the Legendary Transplant Surgeon Thomas Starzl

Introduction: Thomas Starzl is widely regarded as the “Father of Organ Transplantation” for his role in establishing transplantation as a medical reality. However, he had a prolific career beyond transplantation, the bearings of which are largely overshadowed by his contributions to transplantation.

Methods: Historical vignette highlighting Dr. Starzl's contributions to neurophysiology

Results: Thomas Starzl had a prolific career outside of transplantation, with varied interests including neuroscience, cardiac physiology and hepatotrophic physiology. While a medical student at Northwestern, Thomas Starzl obtained a PhD in neurophysiology working under Horace Magoun, the discoverer of the Reticular Activating System (RAS). As a part of Magoun’s lab, Starzl conducted several classic experiments to isolate the neural pathways involved in the diffuse thalamic projection system and extralemniscal sensory system. These systems are involved with thalamic projections mediating cortical arousal and extra-thalamic sensory processing, respectively. Starzl’s work continues to be cited and was instrumental in Magoun’s later work in defining the RAS. While at Northwestern, Starzl seriously considered a career in neurological surgery under the mentorship of Loyal Davis, MD, the legendary neurological surgeon and Chairman of the Department of Surgery at Northwestern. Starzl ultimately decided to pursue general surgery and later cardiothoracic surgery before revolutionizing transplantation. Nevertheless, he made notable contributions to neurology and neurological surgery during his graduate studies.

Conclusion : Thomas Starzl made several notable contributions to several fields beyond transplantation, which are often overlooked due to his work in the field of transplantation. Dr. Starzl’s non-transplantation scientific contributions are notable and should be celebrated.