The French physiologist and pioneer of experimental pharmacology Francois Magendie (1783- 1855). He graduated in medicine in Paris in 1808. In 1809 he described his experiments on plant poisons, using animals to find the precise physiological effect, and then testing out the compounds on himself. In this way he introduced into medicine a range of compounds which include strychnine, morphine, codeine and quinine. He also proved that spinal nerves have separate paths controlling movement and sensation. His enthusiasm for vivisection sacrificed hundreds of animals, mainly dogs, which was much disapproved of in England but not in France.