Experimental results from 1765 provided the first systematic rebuttal of the theory of spontaneous generation, demonstrating that microbes did not spontaneously emerge from inorganic matter if properly boiled and sealed. This work defined the career of an Italian scientist who transitioned from the study of law to natural philosophy, fundamentally altering the understanding of biological reproduction and digestion.
Academic Foundation
Born in 1729 in Scandiano, Lazzaro Spallanzani initially studied law at the University of Bologna under pressure from his father. However, under the influence of his kinswoman and physics professor Laura Bassi, he shifted his focus toward natural science. Following his ordination as a Catholic priest, he secured teaching positions at the University of Reggio, followed by the University of Modena and the University of Pavia.
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Spallanzani's research transformed physiology, particularly through his 1780 publication, Dissertationi di fisica animale e vegetale. He proved that digestion was a chemical process driven by gastric juices rather than simple mechanical grinding. His 1785 book, Expériences pour servir a l'histoire de la génération des animaux et des plantes, further documented his successful demonstrations of in vitro fertilisation and the fusion of ova and spermatozoa.
Institutional Roles and Travels
As the director of the museum at the University of Pavia, Spallanzani significantly expanded the collection through Mediterranean expeditions. His travels extended to Turkey, where he studied copper and iron mines. Despite a scandal involving accusations of museum theft that led to a public dispute with Giovanni Antonio Scopoli, his reputation was eventually cleared through a judicial investigation.
Professional Recognition
His work earned him membership in prestigious institutions, including the Royal Society, the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, and the German Academy of Sciences Leopoldina. In 1796, he declined an appointment at the National Museum of Natural History in Paris due to his advanced age. He died in 1799 in Pavia.
Fast facts
- Born: 1729, Scandiano
- Died: 1799, Pavia
- Primary Field: Biology
- Education: University of Bologna
- Key Publication: Experiences to Serve to the History of the Generation of Animals and Plants (1785)
- Positions: Museum director, university teacher
- Cause of death: Bladder cancer
Questions readers ask
Did Spallanzani prove spontaneous generation was incorrect?
Yes, his 1765 experiments showed that microorganisms did not develop in hermetically sealed, boiled containers, countering the theory that life arose from inanimate matter.
What is the status of Spallanzani's bladder?
Following his death from bladder cancer in 1799, his colleagues removed the organ for scientific study; it remains on public display in a museum in Pavia.
Achievements
- Held posts at University of Modena and Reggio Emilia and University of Pavia
- Educated at University of Bologna
- Fields of research: biology
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