Karl Landsteiner

Profession: Immunologist and Pathologist

Nationality:

Biography: Karl Landsteiner was an Austrian biologist and physician, best known for his work on blood groups. His work was instrumental in developing modern methods of blood transfusion, which have saved countless lives over the past century.

Landsteiner's pivotal discovery came in 1901, when he identified the three main blood groups: A, B, and O. This finding resolved the inconsistencies and sometimes fatal outcomes that had previously occurred with blood transfusions. A few years later, in collaboration with Alexander S. Wiener, he discovered the Rh factor, further refining the compatibility of blood transfusions.

The practical applications of Landsteiner's work are vast. Before his discoveries, blood transfusions were risky and often resulted in the recipient's death. With his system of blood typing, safe and effective transfusions became possible, dramatically improving medical procedures such as surgery, childbirth, and the treatment of blood diseases.

Landsteiner's efforts were recognized internationally when he received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1930.

Born: June 14, 1868
Birthplace: Baden bei Wien, Austria-Hungary
Star Sign: Gemini

Died: June 6, 1943 (aged 74)