On Thursday 28 November 2024, in honour of the influential physiologist Ernest Starling, The Physiological Society dedicated a commemorative blue plaque at University College London. The plaque was unveiled at Physiology Arch to an audience of researchers, students, and followers of Starling’s work.
Ernest Starling (1866–1927) was a British physiologist and medical doctor known for his pioneering research in heart function and fluid balance. He trained in medicine and taught physiology at University College, London, from 1899 to 1923. During this time, Starling opened a physiological institute at the university in 1909.
Starling’s groundbreaking work led to the formulation of the “Starling’s Law of the Heart,” which showed the relationship between heart muscle stretch and cardiac output. Starling’s other contributions include the concept of hormones, pioneering the understanding of how a substance produced in one part of the body can make a specific response elsewhere in the body. His work profoundly impacted medicine and continues to inform modern physiology.
The event included historic and scientific talks from academics. Tilli Tansey (University College London, UK) presented ‘Ernest Starling, a man of his times?’. The discussions then focused on Starling’s research on the heart with Daniel Brayson (University of Westminster, UK) talking about ‘Starling and the regulation of the heart beat’, followed by ‘Starling forces and regulation of microvascular circulation in the heart’ delivered by Svetlana Mastitskaya (University of Bristol, UK).
By commemorating Ernest Starling at University College London, The Physiological Society reiterates its dedication to acknowledging key figures in the discipline, acting as a reminder of our scientific roots and that physiology continues to change the world.
Following the plaque unveiling, Professor David Attwell, President of the Physiological Society, said:
“We are delighted to be at University College London to unveil this plaque to remember Ernest Starling. He introduced the concept of hormone action, and his work on how the heart works was groundbreaking.
“The Physiological Society’s Blue Plaque scheme raises the visibility of physiology. It gives the wider public an insight into the positive role that ‘the science of life’ plays in their everyday lives.
“We hope these plaques will spark curiosity and help inspire new generations to get involved in the physiological sciences.”