It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Anthony Epstein, a pioneering pathologist who made significant contributions to the field of cancer research. Epstein, who passed away at the age of 102, dedicated his life to unlocking the mysteries of viruses and their link to cancer. His groundbreaking discovery of the Epstein-Barr virus revolutionized our understanding of viral-induced cancers and opened new avenues for prevention and treatment.
Unraveling the Cause of Cancer
In the early 1960s, Epstein, inspired by a lecture given by Denis Burkitt, a surgeon in Kampala, Uganda, embarked on a mission to investigate the mysterious tumors known as Burkitt lymphoma. The geographical distribution of these tumors, which seemed to be influenced by temperature and rainfall, hinted at a biological cause. Epstein, drawing from his research on cancer-causing viruses in chickens, suspected that a virus might be behind this enigmatic disease.
Epstein collaborated with Burkitt, who provided him with tumor samples from the children he treated. Despite numerous failed attempts, Epstein’s breakthrough came when a consignment of tumor samples arrived at his laboratory in London, albeit in poor condition. Swimming in murky fluid, the samples contained loose cells that Epstein examined under a microscope. To his astonishment, he found no bacteria but individual cells shaken loose from the tumors.
Discovering the Epstein-Barr Virus
Teaming up with his graduate student, Yvonne Barr, Epstein decided to examine these dissociated cells using an electron microscope. The very first image revealed a distinctive outline resembling one of the herpes viruses. This previously unknown member of the herpes family was later named the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). In 1964, Epstein, along with Barr and his research assistant, Bert Achong, published the groundbreaking evidence that a virus could cause cancer in humans, although their discovery was initially met with skepticism.
A computer illustration of the Epstein-Barr virus. Photo: Science Photo Library/Alamy
Impact Beyond Burkitt Lymphoma
The discovery of the Epstein-Barr virus not only shed light on the origins of Burkitt lymphoma but also unearthed its association with glandular fever, also known as infectious mononucleosis. This breakthrough enabled the development of a diagnostic test for the virus, aiding in confirming diagnoses. EBV was found to be prevalent, infecting most children during early life but typically causing glandular fever in older teenagers and young adults. Beyond Burkitt lymphoma and glandular fever, EBV has been linked to cancer of the nose and throat, prevalent among men in south China, as well as cancers in individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those infected with HIV.
Unveiling New Connections
Recent research has indicated a potential association between EBV and multiple sclerosis. Furthermore, individuals who have previously had glandular fever are believed to be more susceptible to severe cases of Covid-19. Epstein’s groundbreaking discovery has paved the way for extensive exploration into the role of viruses in cancer, giving hope for the development of preventive measures through vaccines.
Legacies and Honors
Following his retirement in 1985, Epstein’s research group at the University of Bristol developed a candidate vaccine that demonstrated protection against EBV-induced tumors in monkeys. Although no successful vaccine for human use has been developed as of yet, Epstein’s contributions continue to inspire and propel ongoing efforts in the field of cancer research.
Throughout his illustrious career, Epstein’s impact extended far beyond his groundbreaking discovery. Not only was he regarded as an exemplary scientific citizen, serving as foreign secretary and vice-president of the Royal Society, but he also played pivotal roles in numerous national and international research organizations. His accolades include the prestigious Gairdner Award for biomedical research in 1988, a CBE in 1985, and knighthood in 1991.
A Multifaceted Life
Anthony Epstein was born in London to Olga and Mortimer Epstein. His father, a writer and translator, had a deep influence on him. Epstein attended St Paul’s School in London, where he nurtured his passion for biology under the guidance of Sidney Pask, a biology teacher renowned for pushing his students beyond the curriculum. Epstein went on to study medicine at Trinity College, Cambridge, and completed his training at the Middlesex Hospital Medical School in London during wartime.
Epstein’s insatiable curiosity led him to learn electron microscopy, a cutting-edge technique at the time, at the Rockefeller Institute in New York. It was shortly after his return from the institute that he attended Burkitt’s lecture, setting him on the serendipitous path to his groundbreaking discovery.
Even outside the realm of science, Epstein was a man of diverse interests. His cultural depth extended to oriental rugs, Tibet, and amphibians, which continued to captivate him until his final days.
Remembering Anthony Epstein
Anthony Epstein leaves behind a legacy of scientific curiosity, tenacity, and groundbreaking discoveries. He will be remembered not only for his immense contributions to cancer research but also for his unwavering dedication to unraveling the mysteries of viruses. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his partner, Kate Ward, his children, Susan, Simon, and Michael, his grandchildren, his great-grandchildren, and all those whose lives he touched.
For more information on Anthony Epstein’s contributions and to explore other celebrity obituaries, visit Celebrity Deaths 2024.
FAQs
Q: What was the cause of Anthony Epstein’s death?
A: As of now, the cause of Anthony Epstein’s death has not been publicly disclosed.
Q: What was the impact of Epstein’s discovery of the Epstein-Barr virus?
A: Epstein’s discovery of the Epstein-Barr virus revolutionized our understanding of viral-induced cancers. It opened new avenues for research into the role of viruses in cancer and raised the exciting possibility of preventing cancers through vaccination.
