Akira Endo, the renowned Japanese biochemist whose groundbreaking research led to the development of cholesterol-lowering statins, has passed away at the age of 90. Endo died on June 5 at a nursing facility in Tokyo, as reported by Japan’s public broadcasting network NHK.
Endo’s pioneering work in the 1970s identified a fungal compound that would eventually be developed into statins, drugs that have significantly reduced the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels. His discovery has been hailed as one of the most important medical advancements of the 20th century, saving millions of lives worldwide.
Throughout his illustrious career, Endo received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Lasker-DeBakey Clinical Medical Research Award in 2008. He is remembered for his dedication to science and his profound impact on global health.