Emil von Behring: The Pioneer in Immunization and Nobel Prize Winner
Few better nicknames than Erin von Behring have gone down in history. Known as “the savior of soldiers and children,” this curious nickname refers to a life dedicated to improving public health, especially work in immunization against tetanus and diphtheria – two infectious diseases that were seriously harming a good part of society.
Emil Adolf von Behring was born on March 15, 1854, in Hansdorf, a small town in former East Prussia, into a humble family. Despite economic limitations, Behring’s intelligence and talent did not go unnoticed, and he was able to study medicine with the help of a scholarship. Behring’s dedication to combat diseases like tetanus and diphtheria led him to groundbreaking research and discoveries.
In the 1890s, Behring joined forces with Japanese bacteriologist Shibasaburo Kitasato to conduct definitive research into infectious diseases. Together, they discovered the tetanus antitoxin, which paved the way for the use of antitoxin serums in the treatment of infectious diseases. Their work not only saved lives but also laid the foundations for the development of therapies based on antitoxin sera.
In 1901, Emil von Behring was awarded the first Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine, becoming the first scientist in history to receive that recognition. His discoveries of anti-diphtheria serum and the understanding of body defenses against infectious diseases revolutionized the field of immunology and immunization.
Despite his scientific achievements, Behring’s Nobel Prize was surrounded by controversy due to the lack of recognition for his research partner, Shibasaburo Kitasato, and other scientists who contributed to the discoveries. However, Behring’s contributions remain fundamental to the study of immunology and immunization.
Emil von Behring’s legacy as a pioneer in immunization and a Nobel Prize winner continues to inspire future generations of scientists to strive for breakthroughs in public health.