Australian Biomedical Scientist
We must sometimes be reminded of the wonderful people who have made a positive contribution to science and influenced our understanding and established new methods that aspire towards relieving human suffering and disease.
One of those working in the medical sphere of research is Professor Donald Metcalf, AC FAA FRS is an Australian biomedical scientist and Professor Emeritus University of Melbourne. He was awarded the Victoria Prize in 2000 for his work recognized and utilized throughout the world in the sphere of blood cells and their regeneration.
The discoveries and techniques of Professor Metcalf and his colleagues have been applied for many years since 1960’s in haematology focussed upon cancer and leukaemia with one famous patient, Jose Carreras being one of an estimated million sufferers benefitting from the associated treatment methods. Where earlier methods involving bone marrow transplantation were used, due to the research team they have now been replaced by blood cell transplantation that obviates any necessity for the painful previous procedures.
Professor Metcalf is honoured in his own country and by the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne where so much of his work has been based and still continues.
His work extends throughout the world from his discoveries particularly in relation to the white blood cells as he explains, “’Even with the use of antibiotics, patients remain at risk of life threatening diseases unless they have an adequate number of host defence cells which are functioning effectively…With our discovery and development of specific hormones, called “colony stimulating factors” or “CSFs”, we can now stimulate the formation of additional numbers of these vital white blood cells.’
In his long career his contribution to medical science has been considerable. He is a respected member of the world Health Organization’s Cancer Advisory Panel.
His other interests include astronomy and his inventive abilities are reflected in the 14 patents he has undertaken.
He encourages young students to take up a career in scientific research and is author of hundreds of scientific papers and book publications.
Antony Burgess, Director, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Melbourne says…
‘Professor Metcalf is one of the most successful Australian scientists of his time… he has inspired two generations of young scientists and clinicians to undertake the most challenging of medical problems, to compete with the world’s best and to win. Scientists from all over the world recognize his role in the discovery of blood cell growth factors.’
Leave a Reply