Inventions
From life-saving medical therapies to revolutionary agricultural advancements, WARF has fueled a century of groundbreaking inventions. Explore the discoveries that have shaped our world and continue to inspire progress today.
Explore a Century of Innovation
Inventions
1924
Vitamin D Fortification:
Illuminating a Path to Healthier Futures.
Harry Steenbock's discovery of vitamin D fortification wasn't just a scientific breakthrough; it was a turning point in public health. This innovation, entrusted to WARF, helped eradicate rickets and improve overall nutrition. It also laid the foundation for a century of WARF's support for world-changing research. Learn More
1938
Stabilized Iodine in Salt:
Ensuring Essential Nutrients Reach Every Table.
E.B. Hart's work on stabilizing iodine in salt exemplifies WARF's dedication to improving public health through practical solutions. This innovation ensured that a vital nutrient reached communities worldwide, preventing iodine deficiency disorders. Learn More
1940
Salve for the Surgical Removal of Tissue (Mohs Surgery):
Pioneering Precision in Cancer Treatment.
Dr. Frederick Mohs' innovative surgery, initially met with skepticism, has become the gold standard for skin cancer treatment. WARF's role in patenting this technique not only legitimized it but supported its widespread adoption, benefiting countless patients over the decades. Learn More
1947
Dicumarol and Warfarin:
From Spoiled Hay to Life-Saving Medicine.
Karl Paul Link's groundbreaking research on blood thinners, culminating in the development of Dicumarol, warfarin, showcases WARF's ability to translate unexpected discoveries into life-saving treatments. Learn More
1949
Method of Applying Edible Coatings to Pills:
Making Medicine Easier to Swallow.
This seemingly simple innovation highlights WARF's attention to detail and commitment to improving patient experiences. Dale Wurster's invention, supported and patented by WARF, made medications more convenient for countless individuals. Learn More
1954
Novel Cranberry Varieties:
A Cranberry Revolution.
WARF's first plant patent, for a process to create maraschino-style cranberries, marked an expansion into agricultural innovation. This initial success paved the way for the development of other unique varieties, like the HyRed cranberry and the Badger Flame beet, enriching both agriculture and consumers' tables. Learn More
1968
First Vitamin D Metabolite:
Building on a Legacy of Vitamin D Research.
Hector DeLuca's groundbreaking work on vitamin D metabolites, resulting in numerous patents and the development of treatments for various diseases, exemplifies WARF's long-standing commitment to advancing this critical area of research. Learn More
1973
Digital Subtraction Angiography:
Revolutionizing Cardiovascular Diagnostics.
Charles Mistretta's development of Digital Subtraction Angiography, patented by WARF, transformed the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. This technology continues to be a vital tool for health care professionals worldwide. Learn More
1979
Separating Copper and Silicon in Computers:
Powering the Digital Age.
This innovative solution to a critical challenge in semiconductor technology highlights WARF's support for research that drives technological advancements with global impact. Learn More
1985
UW Solution for Preserving Organs:
Extending the Gift of Life.
The "UW Solution" for organ preservation, developed by UW surgeons and patented by WARF, has revolutionized transplantation medicine, significantly increasing the success rates of organ transplants and saving countless lives. Learn More
1987
Protein Production Enhancer:
Unlocking the Secrets of Viruses.
Ann Palmenberg's research on protein production enhancers, supported and patented by WARF, has provided invaluable tools for researchers studying viruses and developing treatments for infectious diseases. Learn More
1992
Conjugated Linoleic Acids (CLA):
From Picnic Point to Nutritional Breakthrough.
The discovery of CLA's health benefits, born from a chance encounter on a running path and supported by WARF, highlights the power of collaboration and the potential for unexpected discoveries to improve human health. Learn More
1993
Multileaf Beam-Limiting Device for Radiation Therapy:
Targeting Cancer with Precision.
This innovative device, a key component of the TomoTherapy system, demonstrates WARF's commitment to supporting research that advances cancer treatment and improves patient outcomes. Learn More
1996
Parallel Processing Computers:
Accelerating the Pace of Computing.
Gurindar Sohi's research on parallel processing, patented by WARF, has significantly increased computer speed and efficiency, impacting the development of mobile devices and other technologies. Learn More
1998
Human Embryonic Stem Cells:
Unlocking the Potential of Regenerative Medicine.
WARF's patenting of human embryonic stem cells, a groundbreaking discovery by Dr. James Thomson, opened new possibilities for regenerative medicine and the treatment of various diseases. Learn More
2001
Recombinant Flu Viruses for Vaccines:
Developing Innovative Vaccines for a Healthier World.
WARF's patenting of recombinant flu virus technology has led to the development of more effective vaccines, protecting people from influenza and other infectious diseases. Learn More
2002
Method and Composition for Skin Grafts:
Revolutionizing Skin Graft Technology.
Lynn Allen-Hoffmann's discovery of long-lived keratinocytes, patented by WARF, has led to innovative skin graft treatments and the founding of Stratatech Corporation, the first woman-founded UW startup. Learn More
2010
Producing Plastic Precursors from Biomass:
Sustainable Solutions for a Greener Future.
This innovative process, developed by UW engineers, offers a sustainable alternative to producing valuable chemicals from petroleum. The formation of Pyran in 2018 demonstrates WARF's commitment to translating research into environmentally friendly solutions for the plastics industry. Learn More
2018
Unlocking Next-Gen Semiconductors:
Powering the Future of Computing.
Breakthroughs in carbon nanotube processing hold the key to the next generation of high-performance semiconductors. The founding of SixLine Semiconductor in 2022 underscores the potential of this technology to revolutionize computing and other industries. Learn More
2021
Tackling Clean Energy Issues with Fusion:
A New Approach to Fusion Energy.
Realta Fusion's innovative approach to fusion energy offers a promising path towards clean and sustainable power. WARF's support for this startup reflects a dedication to addressing critical energy challenges and building a more sustainable future. Learn More
2024
Simplifying Cancer Detection:
Making Early Screening More Accessible.
A diagnostic from a pair of surgery researchers allows at-home collection of blood samples, making the early screening and detection of cancer easier and more cost effective and improving health equity for millions of individuals. Learn More