Otto Frank (physiologist)

Otto Frank (June 21, 1865 – November 12, 1944) was a German physiologist known for his contributions to the study of the heart and circulation. He is particularly recognized for his development of the Frank-Starling law of the heart, a fundamental principle in cardiovascular physiology.

Frank studied medicine at the University of Munich and the University of Kiel, obtaining his medical degree in 1888. He subsequently dedicated his career to physiological research, holding positions at the University of Munich and later becoming a professor of physiology at the University of Gießen.

His key contributions include:

• The Frank-Starling Law of the Heart: This law states that the stroke volume of the heart increases in response to an increase in the volume of blood filling the heart (the end-diastolic volume), when all other factors remain constant. In simpler terms, the heart pumps what it receives. Frank's meticulous experiments using isolated frog hearts provided the experimental basis for this crucial concept, which was further refined by Ernest Starling.

• Mathematical Modeling of the Heart: Frank was a pioneer in applying mathematical principles to understand cardiac function. He developed models to describe the pressure-volume relationship of the heart and the mechanics of muscle contraction.

• Optical Methods for Measuring Cardiac Function: He developed innovative optical techniques for measuring the pressure and volume changes within the heart, contributing significantly to the understanding of cardiac dynamics.

Frank's work laid the foundation for many advancements in cardiovascular medicine and continues to be highly influential in the field. His meticulous experimental techniques and quantitative approach to physiological investigation set a high standard for research. He died in Munich in 1944.