Percy Herring

Percy Herring

Percy Herring, British physiologist

Birth date	3 November 1872
Birth place	London, England
Died	24 October 1967
Place of death	Edinburgh, Scotland
Nationality	British
Known for	Herring bodies

Percy Theodore Herring (3 November 1872 – 24 October 1967) was a prominent British physiologist known for his pioneering work in endocrinology and neurophysiology. He is best remembered for his discovery of Herring bodies, which are structures found in the posterior pituitary gland.

Early Life and Education

Percy Herring was born in London, England, in 1872. He attended the University of Cambridge, where he studied natural sciences. Herring showed an early interest in physiology, which led him to pursue further studies in this field. He completed his medical training at St Bartholomew's Hospital in London.

Academic Career

Herring began his academic career as a lecturer in physiology at the University of Leeds. His research focused on the endocrine system, particularly the pituitary gland. In 1908, he was appointed as a professor of physiology at the University of Edinburgh, where he continued his research and teaching until his retirement.

Research Contributions

Herring's most significant contribution to physiology was his discovery of the structures now known as Herring bodies. These are neurosecretory granules found in the posterior pituitary gland, which store and release hormones such as oxytocin and vasopressin. His work provided crucial insights into the functioning of the endocrine system and the role of the pituitary gland in hormone regulation.

Herring also conducted research on the autonomic nervous system and its influence on bodily functions. His studies helped to elucidate the mechanisms by which the nervous system controls various physiological processes.

Legacy

Percy Herring's work laid the foundation for future research in endocrinology and neurophysiology. His discovery of Herring bodies remains a fundamental concept in the study of the pituitary gland and its functions. Herring's contributions to physiology are recognized and respected in the scientific community.

Personal Life

Herring was known for his dedication to teaching and his ability to inspire students. He was married and had two children. Outside of his academic pursuits, he enjoyed gardening and classical music.

Also see

• Endocrinology
• Pituitary gland
• Neurophysiology
• Oxytocin
• Vasopressin