The term "father of blood cells" doesn't directly relate to a single person. However, William Hewson is considered the "father of haematology" for his significant contributions to our understanding of blood cells. Working alongside the Hunter brothers in London in the mid-18th century, he made advancements in our knowledge of red and white blood cells.
While he mistakenly believed some of these cells were involved in the formation of blood clots, Hewson's research laid the foundation for future hematologists and scientists to delve deeper into the complexities of blood cells.
Further information:
- Karl Landsteiner discovered different blood groups in 1901, explaining why red blood cells sometimes clumped when blood from different individuals was mixed.
- Charles Richard Drew is known as the "father of the blood bank" for his pioneering work in preserving and storing blood plasma for transfusion.
- Sickle cell disease is a blood disorder that causes red blood cells to change shape, leading to various health problems.