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[On the origins of the Druckrey-Küpfmüller Papers (1948-1949): dose-effect relations in carcinogenic substances].

2005; Franz Steiner Verlag; Volume: 40; Linguagem: Inglês

1611-4477

V. Wunderlich,

Cancer Treatment and Pharmacology

Theoretical knowledge about the relationship between drug dosage and tissue response in pharmacology and toxicology in general, and concerning the action of carcinogenic substances in particular, largely dates back to two papers by Hermann Druckrey and Karl Kupfmuller, published in 1948 and 1949, respectively. The definition of cumulative poisons and the first proof of the irreversibility of carcinogenic effects had an extraordinary impact on cancer research. The story of how these papers came to be written is remarkable for several reasons. First, an interdisciplinary approach resulted in a landmark interpretation of data regarding the quantitative analysis of cancer development. Second, an intensive collaboration developed between Druckrey, a cancer researcher, and Kupfmuller, a mathematically adept electrical and communications engineer. Third, during their temporary full-time co-operation, both researchers were in an allied internment camp. Thus, their fundamental scientific achievement ultimately resulted from the fulfilment of three conditions of innovation, i.e. compatible visions of the co-operating scientists, interdisciplinary links, and chance.