Dr. Gustavo Bounous, MD

Dr. Bounous discovered Immunocal. The studies he started in 1978 on the discovery and development of a dietary protein source from whey concentrate have become the standard by which all other whey products are measured.

Educated at the University of Turin and the University of Genoa in his native Italy, Dr. Gustavo Bounous’ distinguished career in medical research began as a Research Fellow in surgery at the Indiana Medical Center, Indianapolis. In 1963, he moved to Canada and began an academic career that led him to become Professor of Surgery, first at the University of Sherbrooke (1973-1985) and then at McGill University (1985-1993).

Dr. Bounous was awarded the 1965 medal of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. He pioneered the use of elemental diets in the prophylaxis and treatment of intestinal lesions associated with shock, intestinal ischemia, radiation, cancer chemotherapy and Crohn’s disease. In 1968, he was named Career Investigator of the Medical Research Council, an award that was reconfirmed until 1993, the year of his retirement from McGill University.

In 1978, Dr. Bounous initiated a novel research program in conjunction with a colleague from the McGill University Faculty of Medicine to search for a dietary protein source that would boost the immune system. Their research led to the discovery of an undenatured serum milk concentrate that sustains normal glutathione levels and promotes immunoenhancing and anticarcinogenic activity. Subsequent identification of the active ingredients present in this protein mixture led to the development of a high-quality bioactive material given the name and trademark Immunocal®/HMS 90® in 1993.

In addition to being honored as a Career Investigator of the Canadian Research Council, Dr. Bounous is a recipient of the Medal of Royal College of Physicians and a lifetime member of the Research Council of Canada. His pioneering work in natural glutathione precursors is still quoted and referenced world-wide.