In 1938 the Journal of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, featured the article “The clotting power of human and mammalian blood in relation to vitamin K,” written by Henrik Dam, a Danish biochemist whose groundbreaking research left an enduring mark on the understanding of vitamin K. This work delved into the intricacies of blood clotting in connection with vitamin K, paving the way for a deeper comprehension of coagulation disorders.

Henrik Dam earned his engineering degree in 1920 and later assumed the role of professor in biochemistry and nutrition from 1941 to 1965 at what is now the Technical University of Denmark.

A key moment in Dam’s career occurred in 1929-30 when he demonstrated that chickens on a fat-free diet developed bleeding disorders due to coagulation disturbances. This could be remedied by a fat-soluble substance found in green leaves. In 1939, Dam, in collaboration with American Edward Adelbert Doisy, isolated and named this substance K-vitamin, marking a breakthrough in nutritional science. For this groundbreaking discovery, Dam and Doisy were jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine and Physiology in 1943.

Dam’s influence in he PMI Journal extends beyond the previously mentioned article; he is a co-author on several other PMI publications, many of which delve into the realms of saliva and oral cavity research. His multifaceted contributions underscore his dedication to unravelling the complexities of biological processes.

Henrik Dam’s legacy lives on not only through his pivotal role in the PMI Journal but also as a Nobel laureate whose discoveries revolutionized our understanding of vitamin K. As we reflect on PMI’s rich history, Dam’s contributions serve as a testament to the journal’s commitment to showcasing important research.

Photo from the Nobel Foundation archive.