Rita Levi-Montalcini and the secret of neuronal growth

Rita Levi-Montalcini (22 April 1909 – 30 December 2012) was a student when she saw the intricate neurons for the first time and committed to unravel the secrets of their growth. In our brains, neurons multiply and make us unique. But how? Nobody knew. She built her research career around that question, during World War II, and overcame what in her country and time were two monumental obstacles—being a woman and a Jew. And she not only solved that mistery, she won a Nobel Prize for the discovery of the first growth factor.

 

In summary:

🧠 Rita Levi-Montalcini discovered the secret of neuronal growth

🕵️‍♀️ she secretly investigated during the fascist era in Italy

🐣 Tumor cells produce a substance that promotes nerve growth

🧪 This substance is called Nerve Growth Factor