David Dane

David Dane

Name	David Dane
Birth name
Birth date	1923
Birth place	United Kingdom
Death date	2009
Death place
Alma mater
Occupation	Virologist
Years active
Organization
Known for	Development of the Dane particle
Notable works
Spouse(s)
Website

David Maurice Surrey Dane (1923–2009) was a prominent British virologist renowned for his pioneering work in the field of hepatitis B research. He is best known for the discovery of the Dane particle, the complete infectious form of the hepatitis B virus (HBV).

Early Life and Education

David Dane was born in 1923 in the United Kingdom. He pursued his medical education at the University of London, where he developed a keen interest in virology and infectious diseases. After completing his medical degree, Dane continued his studies and research in virology, which led to significant contributions to the understanding of viral infections.

Career and Research

Dane's career was marked by his dedication to the study of viral hepatitis. In the 1960s, while working at the Middlesex Hospital Medical School in London, he focused on the hepatitis B virus, which was a major cause of liver disease worldwide.

In 1970, Dane and his colleagues made a groundbreaking discovery. They identified the complete hepatitis B virus particle in the blood of infected individuals, which became known as the Dane particle. This discovery was crucial in understanding the structure and replication of the virus, paving the way for the development of diagnostic tests and vaccines.

The Dane Particle

The Dane particle is the complete virion of the hepatitis B virus. It is a spherical particle, approximately 42 nm in diameter, and contains the viral DNA, core antigen (HBcAg), and surface antigen (HBsAg). The identification of the Dane particle was a significant advancement in the field of virology, as it allowed for more accurate diagnosis of hepatitis B infections and contributed to the development of effective vaccines.

Legacy

David Dane's work had a profound impact on the field of virology and public health. The discovery of the Dane particle not only enhanced the understanding of hepatitis B but also facilitated the development of blood screening methods that significantly reduced the transmission of the virus through blood transfusions.

Dane's contributions to medical science were recognized by his peers, and he received several awards and honors throughout his career. His work continues to influence research and clinical practices related to viral hepatitis.

Also see

• Hepatitis B
• Virology
• Viral hepatitis
• Hepatitis B vaccine
• Blood transfusion safety