Alexander S. Wiener

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Alexander S. Wiener

Alexander S. Wiener (March 16, 1907 – November 6, 1976) was an American immunohematologist and serologist who is best known for his discovery of the Rh factor in blood. His work has had a significant impact on the field of transfusion medicine and hematology.

Early Life and Education

Wiener was born in New York City, New York. He attended Cornell University, where he earned his undergraduate degree. He then went on to study at the Long Island College of Medicine, where he received his medical degree.

Career

Wiener began his career working at the New York City Department of Health and later joined the staff of the Brooklyn Jewish Hospital. He collaborated with Karl Landsteiner, a Nobel Prize-winning immunologist, on research related to blood groups.

Discovery of the Rh Factor

In 1937, Wiener and Landsteiner discovered the Rh factor, a protein found on the surface of red blood cells. This discovery was crucial for the development of safe blood transfusions and for understanding hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN), also known as erythroblastosis fetalis. The Rh factor is named after the Rhesus monkey, in which the factor was first discovered.

Contributions to Medicine

Wiener's work extended beyond the Rh factor. He made significant contributions to the understanding of blood group systems and immunohematology. His research has been fundamental in the development of blood typing and crossmatching techniques, which are essential for safe blood transfusions.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Wiener received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to medicine. He was a member of several prestigious medical societies and received honorary degrees from various institutions.

Personal Life

Wiener was married and had two children. He passed away on November 6, 1976, in New York City.

Legacy

Alexander S. Wiener's discovery of the Rh factor has had a lasting impact on the field of medicine. His work continues to be a cornerstone in the study of blood groups and transfusion medicine.

See Also

• Karl Landsteiner
• Rh factor
• Blood transfusion
• Hemolytic disease of the newborn
• Blood group systems