The identification of interferon in 1957 by Jean Lindenmann and Alick Isaacs established a new framework for understanding immune regulation. Working at the National Institute for Medical Research in London, the pair discovered that cells exposed to heat-inactivated viruses secreted a protein substance capable of blocking subsequent viral infections, providing a foundation for modern antiviral therapy.
Academic Foundation and Early Training
Born in Zagreb in 1924 to a Swiss father and a French mother from Paris, Lindenmann moved to Switzerland during his early childhood. He pursued his medical education at the University of Zurich, completing his degree in 1951. Following his graduation, he conducted postgraduate work at the university's Institute of Hygiene before joining the Swiss Armed Forces. In 1956, he secured a fellowship from the Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences, enabling him to conduct postdoctoral research in London.
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During his collaboration with Alick Isaacs, Lindenmann observed that living cells developed resistance to live viral infections after exposure to dead viruses. This process revealed the existence of interferon, a group of proteins involved in immune defense. While early findings indicated that interferons could be toxic if used as general antiviral agents, they were later successfully employed in treatments for hepatitis C, multiple sclerosis, and various cancers.
Later Research and Academic Contributions
After returning to the University of Zurich in 1957, Lindenmann continued his investigations into interferon and viral resistance. Working alongside researchers such as Otto Haller, he examined the mechanisms of influenza resistance in mice. His findings clarified that interferon functions by activating specific genes that trigger protective protein production. Beyond his time at the University of Zurich, he held positions at the Federal Office of Public Health in Bern and served as a visiting professor at the University of Florida in Gainesville.
Professional Recognition and Legacy
Lindenmann received significant recognition for his contributions to immunology and virology, including the Robert Koch Prize in 1973 and the Marcel Benoist Prize in 1976. The Journal of Interferon Research honored his work in 1987, marking the 30th anniversary of the initial discovery. He remained active in the academic community until his retirement in 1992, having contributed to key papers in the Proceedings of the Royal Society and the journal Cell.
Fast facts
- Born: 1924, Zagreb
- Died: 2015, Zurich
- Education: University of Zurich
- Key Discovery: Interferon (1957)
- Robert Koch Prize: 1973
- Marcel Benoist Prize: 1976
- Citizenship: Switzerland
- Spouse: Ellen Buechler
Questions readers ask
What is the primary significance of Jean Lindenmann's research?
He co-discovered interferon, a protein that plays a critical role in the human immune system's defense against viral infections.
Did Lindenmann continue his research after the initial interferon discovery?
Yes, he conducted extensive follow-up studies on how interferon functions, specifically regarding the genetic basis of influenza resistance in laboratory mice.
Achievements
- Marcel Benoist Prize — 1976
- Robert Koch Prize — 1973
- Held posts at University of Zurich
- Fields: virology and immunology
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