One hundred years since the discovery of heparin, not so long ago. The story of a loser

The discovery of heparin dates back to 1916. In 2016, there will be the hundredth anniversary since this event which was initially considered as a curious physiological phenomenon, but subsequently became the basis for the evolution of vascular and cardiac surgery, haemodialysis, blood conservation, and prevention and treatment of thrombo-embolic disease.
Heparin discovery, its subsequent understanding, production, experimental and clinical application, and its final introduction into clinical use like a major pharmacological aid in many treatments almost resemble the script of a drama, full of joys and tears...