LSD

Albert Hofmann's discovery of LSD, whether by chance or design, transformed pharmaceutical research by prompting investigations into how a chemical's structure is recognized and triggers physiological responses. The drug's extreme potency challenged Emil Fischer's conventional lock-and-key model for enzymes. Hofmann's scientific expertise and outstanding qualities may have been overshadowed by LSD's remarkable properties. This article introduces a series: the first piece covers Hofmann's discovery, LSD's use in meditation, creativity, consciousness expansion, treatment of mental illness, and its abuse as a pleasure drug; the third discusses Hofmann's life, chemistry, and passion for nature; a Festschrift commemorating his centenary is also reviewed.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Albert Hofmann’s discovery of LSD by “chance or by a higher plan” led to a revolution in the pharmaceutical industry, inspiring research to understand how a chemical’s structure is recognized and how this recognition triggers a physiological response. The incredible potency of this drug challenged the conventional lock-and-key model that Emil Fischer had proposed for enzymes. In fact, the astounding physiological properties of LSD may have overshadowed the scientific expertise and outstanding qualities of its discoverer, Albert Hofmann, who celebrated his 100th birthday this year. The first article in this series (pp 413-420) sketches Hofmann’s discovery of LSD, its use as an adjunct to meditation, creativity, and consciousness expansion, and treatment of the mentally ill as well as its abuse as a pleasure drug. The third article (pp 427-436) discusses Hofmann’s life and especially his chemistry and his passion for nature. We are also reviewing a Festschrift commemorating his centenary (pp 451-452).