Nobel Laureate Susumu Tonegawa, Who Elucidated Antibody Mechanisms, Dies at 86
Susumu Tonegawa, the 1987 Nobel laureate in Physiology or Medicine, died at age 86. He was celebrated for discovering how immune cells generate diverse antibodies. His work revealed
Susumu Tonegawa, the 1987 Nobel laureate in Physiology or Medicine, died at age 86. He was
celebrated for discovering how immune cells generate diverse antibodies. His work revealed
the genetic mechanisms that enable the body to fight infections. Tonegawa’s research laid
the foundation for modern immunology and vaccine development. The scientist spent much of
his later career studying brain function and memory. His contributions continue to
influence biomedical research worldwide. Colleagues praised his curiosity and willingness
to cross disciplinary boundaries. His passing marks the loss of a pioneering figure in
both immunology and neuroscience.