Christian de Duve

Christian de Duve was a Belgian biochemist awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1974. He is best known for discovering two vital cell structures: lysosomes and peroxisomes. Lysosomes act like the cell's recycling center, breaking down waste materials and cellular debris. Peroxisomes help detoxify harmful substances and are involved in the metabolism of fats. His work significantly advanced our understanding of cellular processes and their implications for health and disease, paving the way for advancements in medicine and biochemistry. De Duve's research has influenced how scientists study cell function and pathology.