Dr. Yellapragada Subbarow

Yellapragada Subbarow

Technical Data

Date of Issue December 19, 1995
Denomination Rs. 1
Quantity 600,000
Perforation comb 13
Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Orange brown
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 1485

Stamp Number IN 1546

Yvert et Tellier IN 1279

Stanley Gibbons IN 1648

Themes

Dr. Yellapragada Subbarow

Dr. Yellapragada Subbarow, born on January 12, 1895, in Bhimavaram, Andhra Pradesh, is celebrated as one of the foremost medical scientists of the 20th century. His groundbreaking work in biochemistry and medicine has had a profound and lasting impact on global health. Here’s a detailed summary of his life and contributions:

Early Life and Education

  • Birth: January 12, 1895, Bhimavaram, Andhra Pradesh.
  • Initial Interests: Originally pursued religion but was influenced by the Ramakrishna Mission to enter the medical field.
  • Medical Education: Qualified from Madras Medical College and worked on systematizing Ayurvedic drugs.

Scientific Achievements

  • Harvard Education: Moved to the U.S. in 1923 to acquire modern research techniques at Harvard School of Tropical Medicine. Later transferred to Harvard Medical School.
  • Research Contributions:
  • Phosphorus Test: Developed a method for the estimation of phosphorus, now a crucial tool in diagnosing metabolic disorders.
  • Phosphocreatine and ATP: Discovered these compounds, which are essential for muscular energy and have provided insights into the energy processes of life.

Key Discoveries and Innovations

  • Folic Acid: Developed folic acid, which was instrumental in combating tropical sprue, a prevalent disease in India.
  • Tetracycline Antibiotics: Conceived tetracycline antibiotics, which address a wide range of infections and fevers.
  • Diethylcarbamazine: Developed this drug to treat filariasis and reduce the risk of elephantiasis.
  • Methotrexate: Created methotrexate, used in treating childhood leukemia and certain adult cancers.

Professional Achievements

  • Director of Research at Lederle Laboratories: Led research teams and fostered creativity among his colleagues, contributing to major advancements in medicine.
  • Legacy: His research and inventions have saved millions of lives worldwide and significantly improved the quality of life over the past fifty years.

Later Years and Death

  • Death: August 8, 1948, in Pearl River, New York.

Legacy and Recognition

  • Centenary Commemoration: The Department of Post issued a commemorative postage stamp on the centenary of his birth, celebrating his extraordinary contributions to medicine and biochemistry.
  • Inspiration: Dr. Subbarow’s work continues to inspire both current and future generations in the fields of medicine and science.

Dr. Yellapragada Subbarow’s innovative discoveries and his contributions to medical science have left an enduring legacy, making him a source of national pride and global admiration.