Biology Discoveries

Comprehensive characterisation of the microbial communities inhabiting the human body, cataloguing over 10,000 species across body sites.

Experimental proof that CRISPR-Cas systems function as adaptive immune systems in bacteria, incorporating viral DNA fragments as immunity records.

Systematic screening of soil actinomycetes leading to the discovery of streptomycin, the first effective treatment for tuberculosis.

Demonstration that tobacco mosaic disease is caused by an agent smaller than any known bacterium, passing through porcelain filters — the first evidence of viruses.

Establishment that specific microorganisms cause specific diseases, disproving spontaneous generation and founding modern microbiology and hygiene.