James W. Black: Scottish pharmacologist who developed propranolol and cimetidine

Early research

Black began his scientific career in the university sector, working in the physiology department at the University of Glasgow. There he investigated how adrenaline and related substances influence the human heart, an interest that shaped his later drug-discovery approach: targeting specific physiological receptors to modify disease processes.

Drug development

In 1958 he moved into industrial research when he joined ICI Pharmaceuticals. While at the company he applied receptor-focused ideas to create propranolol, the first widely used selective agent of its class. Propranolol is a beta blocker that became an important therapy for a range of cardiovascular problems and is used to treat many forms of heart disease.

Later in his career Black directed research that led to the development of cimetidine, a medicine that reduces stomach acid and is effective for healing and preventing stomach ulcers. Cimetidine is an important drug in the history of gastroenterology and demonstrated the value of designing drugs to block specific receptors.

Awards and impact

For his work on receptor-directed drug design and for the therapies that resulted, Black was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1988. His methods and the medicines he helped bring into clinical use have had a lasting effect on both pharmacology and patient care.

Summary

• Nationality: Scottish
• Professions: physician / doctor and pharmacologist
• Key medicines: propranolol (beta blocker) and cimetidine (drug for ulcers)
• Notable honours: OM, FRS, FRSE, FRCP, Nobel Prize (1988)