Paul Niehans

Paul Niehans (1882–1971) was a Swiss physician who is best known for pioneering the field of cell therapy, also known as live cell therapy, fresh cell therapy, or cellular therapy. Born in Bern, Switzerland, Niehans initially trained in internal medicine and endocrinology, but his work eventually led him to develop an interest in the regenerative potential of cellular material.

In 1931, Niehans was called to treat a patient who had a severe problem with the parathyroid glands. After traditional treatments failed, Niehans attempted a then-experimental procedure involving the injection of freshly prepared parathyroid cells from a healthy animal into the patient. The patient's condition improved remarkably, marking the beginning of Niehans' lifelong commitment to cell therapy.

Niehans' method involved extracting cells from the organs of embryonic or very young animals, primarily sheep, and injecting them into the patient. He believed that these young cells could revitalize aging or damaged tissues in humans. Over the years, Niehans treated thousands of patients, including several high-profile individuals and celebrities, with his cell therapy. His work gained international attention, and he founded the Clinique La Prairie in Montreux, Switzerland, which became a center for his cell therapy treatments.

Despite his popularity, Niehans' methods were controversial and met with skepticism from the mainstream medical community. Critics argued that there was little scientific evidence to support the efficacy of cell therapy, and concerns were raised about the safety and ethical implications of the treatments. Nonetheless, Niehans remained a prominent figure in the field of alternative medicine until his death in 1971.

Cell therapy, as pioneered by Niehans, laid the groundwork for modern stem cell research and regenerative medicine. While the scientific community has largely moved away from Niehans' original methods, his work continues to be of historical interest in the study of how cells can be used to repair or replace damaged tissues and organs.