Albert Coons

Dr. Albert Coons

Albert Hewett Coons (June 28, 1912 – September 30, 1978) was an American physician, pathologist, and immunologist. He is best known for his pioneering work in the development of immunofluorescence, a technique that uses antibodies labeled with fluorescent dyes to detect the presence of specific antigens in tissues.

Early Life and Education

Albert Coons was born in Gloversville, New York. He attended Harvard College, where he received his undergraduate degree in 1933. He then went on to study at Harvard Medical School, earning his M.D. in 1937. Coons completed his residency in pathology at the Peter Bent Brigham Hospital in Boston.

Career

After completing his residency, Coons joined the faculty at Harvard Medical School and the Massachusetts General Hospital. During World War II, he served in the United States Army Medical Corps, where he conducted research on infectious diseases.

Immunofluorescence

In the late 1940s, Coons developed the technique of immunofluorescence, which revolutionized the field of immunology. This method involves the use of antibodies tagged with fluorescent dyes to visualize the presence and distribution of specific antigens in tissue sections. Immunofluorescence has since become a fundamental tool in both research and clinical diagnostics.

Later Work

Coons continued to work at Harvard Medical School and the Massachusetts General Hospital throughout his career. He made significant contributions to the understanding of autoimmune diseases and the immune response. His work laid the foundation for many modern techniques in cell biology and molecular biology.

Awards and Honors

Albert Coons received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to science and medicine. He was elected to the National Academy of Sciences and received the Albert Lasker Award for Basic Medical Research in 1959.

Personal Life

Coons was married and had three children. He was known for his dedication to his work and his passion for teaching.

Death

Albert Coons passed away on September 30, 1978, in Boston, Massachusetts.

Legacy

Coons' development of immunofluorescence has had a lasting impact on the fields of pathology, immunology, and cell biology. His work continues to influence research and clinical practices to this day.

See Also

• Immunofluorescence
• Immunology
• Pathology
• Harvard Medical School
• Massachusetts General Hospital