Emil von Behring (15 March 1854 – 31 March 1917) was a German physiologist. In 1901, Emil von Behring was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.
Life and Career
Emil von Behring was born on 15 March 1854, in Hansdorf, Prussia (now Poland).
He studied medicine at the University of Marburg and later at the University of Berlin, where he earned his medical degree in 1878.
Emil von Behring is best known for his pioneering work in the field of immunology. He conducted groundbreaking research on serum therapy, specifically the development of a treatment using antitoxins to combat diphtheria. This work marked a significant advancement in medical science and laid the foundation for modern immunotherapy.
In collaboration with his colleagues, Behring also conducted important research on tetanus, demonstrating the principles of passive immunity by using serum treatments. His work contributed greatly to the understanding of immune responses and the potential for using antibodies to treat infectious diseases.
Emil von Behring passed away on 31 March 1917, in Marburg, Germany.
Award and Legacy
Emil von Behring was awarded the first Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1901 “for his work on serum therapy, especially its application against diphtheria, by which he has opened a new road in the domain of medical science and thereby placed in the hands of the physician a victorious weapon against illness and deaths.”