On 16 November 1938, a chemist working in a Swiss laboratory first synthesized lysergic acid diethylamide, an event that eventually redirected the trajectory of twentieth-century pharmacology. Albert Hofmann, a professional researcher at Sandoz, initially created the compound while investigating ergot derivatives, decades before its properties as a potent psychoactive substance were documented during his own laboratory experimentation.
Early Academic Development
Born in Baden in 1906, Hofmann was the eldest child of a toolmaker. His early exposure to chemistry was supported by his godfather, which enabled him to enroll at the University of Zurich at age 20. Under the guidance of Paul Karrer, he focused on the structural analysis of biological substances. In 1929, he achieved his Doctor of Philosophy by successfully detailing the chemical architecture of chitin.
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Following his studies, Hofmann joined the pharmaceutical division of Sandoz in 1929, working alongside Arthur Stoll. His professional output involved purifying natural constituents from medicinal plants like squill and ergot. It was during a routine research program aimed at finding respiratory stimulants that he synthesized LSD. On 19 April 1943, he conducted the first intentional human trial, recording the substance's intense effects after a self-administered dose.
Ethnomycology and Natural Products
Hofmann eventually moved into the study of psychoactive substances found in indigenous plants and fungi. His team successfully isolated and synthesized psilocybin and psilocin, the primary agents found in certain mushrooms. He also researched the Mexican morning glory, identifying ergine as a compound structurally related to LSD. During a 1962 expedition to Mexico, he collected specimens of Salvia divinorum, though the active component remained elusive to his analysis at the time.
Scientific Legacy and Recognition
Throughout his career, Hofmann authored more than 100 scientific papers and several books, most notably his memoir regarding his work with LSD. His contributions to the field were recognized through the Scheele Award in 1971 and an honorary doctorate from ETH Zürich. He remained active in scientific discourse until his death in 2008 at the age of 102 in Burg im Leimental.
Fast facts
- Born: 1906, Baden, Switzerland
- Died: 2008, Burg im Leimental
- Education: University of Zurich
- Primary Employer: Sandoz
- Major Discovery: Synthesis of LSD (1938)
- Awards: Scheele Award (1971)
- Field of Study: Chemistry
Questions readers ask
What motivated Hofmann to study chemistry?
He pursued the field to seek scientific insights into childhood experiences where he perceived the natural world in altered, magical ways.
What was the original intended use for LSD?
Hofmann initially created the compound as a potential respiratory and circulatory stimulant, known as an analeptic.
Achievements
- Held posts at Novartis
- Educated at University of Zurich
- Fields of research: chemistry and philosophy
