The Disappearing Spoon: a science history podcast with Sam Kean· Staffel 10· Folge 3

The Would-Be Saint's Battle over Down Syndrome

Dienstag, 8. April 2025 · 19 min

MP3

Shownotes

After scientists had a handle on how many chromosomes humans have, other researchers began exploring whether certain ailments might be caused by chromosomal abnormalities. To this end, a French cardiologist discovered that Down syndrome was caused by the presence of an extra chromosome in humans. But a colleague stole credit for her work, and the battle over their legacies continues to this day, in part because the colleague is on track to become a certified Catholic saint.

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