The Emergence of Biochemistry

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Abstract
Several aspects of the interplay of chemistry and biology since 1800, the craftsmanship of separation chemistry, the physicalist conception of protoplasmic molecules, the enzyme theory of life and the concern with comprehensible chemical reactions in biological processes are discussed. All have been historically significant in the emergence of biochemistry, as have been the various kinds of scientists such as pharmacists, physicians, organic or physical chemists, or reductionist or holistic physiologists. There is little evidence of a linear historical progression within a single scientific discipline toward the so-called mature biochemistry of today, and the continuity of the biochemical enterprise is seen rather in the competition among attitudes and approaches derived from different parts of chemistry and biology. Competition and tensions are the principal source of the vitality of biochemistry and are likely to lead to unexpected and exciting novelties in the future, as they have in the past.

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