Isolation of the Iodine Compound Which Occurs in the Thyroid?

Despite the many years of investigation of the thyroid, some of the most fundamental problems concerning this ductless gland are still the subject of speculation and controversy, and the certain progress which follows quantitative knowledge has not yet materialized. Since quantitative values cannot be obtained by clinical observations alone, and since pathologic studies of the glands cannot of themselves solve the function of the thyroid, it becomes apparent that nothing short of the actual isolation in pure crystalline form of the chemical substance or substances within the gland, which are responsible for its activity, can furnish the necessary knowledge with which to gain quantitative relationship. Having accomplished the isolation in pure crystalline form of the active agents within the gland, quantitative results may be obtained and ultimate solution of the thyroid problem is within the power of the investigator.