Physiology, as a science, is the foundation of modern medical knowledge and the starting point for understanding the mechanisms of most diseases. The dynamic development of physiology at the Jagiellonian University dates back to the 14th century, but the last 150 years have yielded notable discoveries, including those of Napoleon Cybulski. Over the last century, the Department of Physiology at the Jagiellonian University have made a valuable contribution to the development of experimental and clinical gastroenterology, which Prof. Stanisław Konturek greatly expanded. This paper aims to present the biography and achievements of Prof. Konturek against the background of a short history of the Department of Physiology. For research purposes, historical studies on the development of the Krakow school of physiology over the centuries, as well as biographical notes and interviews conducted with Prof. Stanisław Konturek, were used and analyzed. The most significant findings of the Department of Physiology in the 19th century, including the discovery of adrenaline and research on brain electrophysiology, are undoubtedly associated with Professor Napoleon Cybulski. The most valuable achievements of Prof. Stanisław Konturek include the role of neuropeptides and intestinal hormones in the physiology and pathology of the digestive system, as well as the involvement of Helicobacter pylori in the development of inflammatory, dysplastic, and neoplastic changes in the gastric mucosa. Professor Konturek was one of the most outstanding physiologists of our time. His scientific legacy includes 650 articles, numerous books, and many successors, professors, and doctors who continue his work.
Keywords: Helicobacter pylori; gastroenterology; history of physiology.