The Bence Jones protein was first described in 1847, identifying a specific globulin found in human blood and urine. This clinical observation became a diagnostic indicator for multiple myeloma and Waldenström's macroglobulinemia, marking a significant advancement in diagnostic pathology during the mid-nineteenth century. The discovery cemented the professional legacy of the man responsible for its identification.
Early Education and Academic Training
Born at Thorington Hall, Stoke-by-Nayland in 1813, Henry Bence Jones began his formal education at Hingham, Norfolk, followed by a private school in Putney. In 1827, he enrolled at Harrow School before proceeding to Trinity College, Cambridge, where he earned his degree in 1836. His interest in medical science prompted him to enroll at St George's Hospital in 1838. He furthered his technical expertise by studying chemistry at University College, London, in 1839 and later traveled to Germany in 1841 to work alongside Liebig at the University of Giessen.
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Upon returning to the United Kingdom, Bence Jones joined the staff at St George's Hospital. He progressed through the ranks from assistant physician to full physician in 1846. His medical career continued until 1862, when he resigned his position due to health concerns. Beyond his clinical duties, he served as the secretary to the Royal Institution for many years, managing administrative responsibilities while continuing his research and scientific writing.
Professional Recognition and Published Works
Bence Jones held several distinguished memberships, including a fellowship at the Royal Society and the Royal College of Physicians of London, where he eventually served as senior censor. His scholarly output included numerous scientific papers and books. In 1868, he delivered the Croonian Lecture to the Royal College of Physicians, focusing on the relationship between matter and force. He also published The Life and Letters of Faraday in 1870.
Personal Life and Final Years
On 28 May 1842, Bence Jones married Lady Millicent Acheson, the daughter of the 2nd Earl of Gosford and Mary Sparrow. The couple had seven children during their marriage. Bence Jones passed away in London on 20 April 1873. He was interred at Kensal Green Cemetery, and his widow survived him until her death in 1887.
Fast facts
- Born: 1813, Stoke-by-Nayland
- Died: 1873, London
- Education: Harrow School, Trinity College, University of Giessen
- Major Discovery: Bence Jones protein (1847)
- Professional Titles: Fellow of the Royal Society, Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians
- Key Publication: The Life and Letters of Faraday (1870)
- Burial Site: Kensal Green Cemetery
Questions readers ask
What medical condition is the Bence Jones protein associated with?
The protein is a diagnostic indicator for multiple myeloma or Waldenström's macroglobulinemia.
Where did Henry Bence Jones receive his chemistry training?
He studied chemistry at University College, London, and later worked with Liebig at the University of Giessen.
Achievements
- Fellow of the Royal Society
- Croonian Medal and Lecture — 1868
- Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of London
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