Chapter 10 A life-long quest for biochemical regulation (Helmut Holzer, 1921–1997)

Publisher Summary Helmut Holzer was born in the little town of Neuenburg on June 14, 1921. He was a pioneer in the area of enzyme regulation. He made his mark in classical biochemistry by the elucidation of the structure of active acetaldehyde as hydroxyethyl thiamine pyrophosphate. The understanding of metabolic regulation was greatly augmented by his studies on enzyme activity correlations, the interconversion of enzymes by reversible covalent modification, and the changes of enzyme levels through limited proteolysis. The impact of Holzer's research is clearly visible by the number and quality of his publications, by his contributions to scientific meetings, and by his activities in scientific organizations. The number and the achievements of his pupils and co-workers bear witness to his enormous success, both as an investigator and a teacher. Helmut decided to do the experimental work required for the diploma in chemistry under the physicochemist, Klaus Clusius. The international reputation of this professor and Helmut's interest in the application of mathematics to scientific problems was instrumental in his choice.