Michael Sela

Sela Michael

Michael Sela (born 1924) is an eminent immunologist and former president of the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel. His pioneering research has significantly contributed to the fields of immunology and peptide chemistry, making substantial impacts on both scientific understanding and practical applications in medicine and biotechnology.

Early Life and Education

Michael Sela was born in 1924 in Poland. He immigrated to what was then the British Mandate of Palestine in the 1930s. Sela pursued his higher education at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where he obtained his M.Sc. in organic chemistry. He later earned his Ph.D. in biochemistry, focusing on the study of antibodies and their interaction with antigens, which laid the groundwork for his future contributions to immunology.

Career and Research

In the early stages of his career, Michael Sela joined the Weizmann Institute of Science, where he would spend the majority of his professional life. His research at the Weizmann Institute has been pivotal in the advancement of immunological science. Sela's work has been instrumental in elucidating the chemical structure of antibodies, understanding how antibodies recognize specific antigens, and the development of synthetic vaccines.

One of Michael Sela's most notable contributions to science is his work on the development of Copolymer 1 (also known as Glatiramer Acetate or Copaxone), a drug used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis. This breakthrough demonstrated the potential of synthetic molecules in modulating the immune system, opening new avenues for the treatment of autoimmune diseases.

Throughout his career, Sela has been recognized with numerous awards and honors for his contributions to science, including the Israel Prize in Life Sciences, which he was awarded in 1959. He has also been a member of various prestigious scientific organizations, including the National Academy of Sciences in the United States.

Presidency at the Weizmann Institute

Michael Sela served as the president of the Weizmann Institute of Science from 1975 to 1985. During his tenure, he was instrumental in fostering an environment of scientific excellence and collaboration. Under his leadership, the institute expanded its research facilities and strengthened its international collaborations, further solidifying its reputation as a leading global research institution.

Legacy and Impact

Michael Sela's contributions to the field of immunology and his leadership at the Weizmann Institute have left a lasting impact on the scientific community. His work has paved the way for new therapeutic approaches in treating autoimmune diseases and has inspired generations of scientists in the field of immunology.

Selected Publications

Michael Sela has authored and co-authored numerous scientific publications throughout his career. While a comprehensive list of his works is beyond the scope of this article, some of his most influential papers have focused on the chemical properties of antibodies, the mechanisms of immune response, and the development of synthetic vaccines.

See Also

• Immunology
• Weizmann Institute of Science
• Antibodies
• Vaccines