The controversial contribution to dental research made by Albert Schatz-Co-discoverer of streptomycin

Abstract

In addition to being co-discoverer of the antibiotic streptomycin the American microbiologist and soil scientist, Albert Schatz did ground breaking dental research. His major contribution is the Proteolysis–Chelation theory, but he also did research on fluoridation where he emphasised the overlooked involvement of so-called paradoxical effects. His research led him to become an active supporter of anti-fluoridation campaigns. The following article discusses Schatz’s important and largely overlooked contribution to dentistry.

Keywords

• Proteolysis–chelation theory
• Fluoridation
• Paradoxical effects
• Streptomycin
• Medical history