JOURNAL ARTICLE

Tom Starzl and the Evolution of Transplantation.

  • Published In: Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society, 2026, v. 167, n. 1. P. 62 1 of 3

  • Database: Art Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: BARKER, CLYDE F. 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on Tom Starzl’s pioneering role in the development of organ transplantation, particularly liver transplantation. Starzl’s early research on liver physiology led him to explore transplantation as a treatment, and his innovative use of immunosuppressive drugs—initially Imuran combined with prednisone, and later cyclosporine and FK506—revolutionized transplant success and survival rates. Despite early setbacks and controversy, Starzl’s protocols became the global standard, enabling transplantation to evolve into a practical clinical service. Later in his career, he investigated immunologic tolerance through donor leukocyte chimerism, aiming for drug-free transplant acceptance. Starzl’s contributions fundamentally transformed medical practice and established transplantation as a reliable therapy worldwide. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society. 2026/03, Vol. 167, Issue 1, p62
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Health and Medicine
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0003-049X
  • DOI:10.1353/pro.2026.a985698
  • Accession Number:192675877
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