1810-1882

German Biologist

Theodor Schwann was a German physiologist who is credited with publishing the most influential work on cell theory. He made significant findings in the study of digestion, fermentation, and tissues.

Schwann originally left his hometown of Neuss to study religion in Cologne. Instead, he gave up theology to enroll in premedical studies at the University of Bonn. Later, in Berlin, he prepared a dissertation under the guidance of Johannes Müller (1801-1858). Following his graduation, Schwann became Müller's assistant and devoted his time to research.

Having become interested in digestive processes, Schwann isolated from the lining of the stomach a chemical that was responsible for the digestion of protein. This chemical, which he called pepsin, was the first enzyme to be isolated from animal tissue.

Interested in disproving the theory of spontaneous generation (the production of living organisms...