Fabricius was born in Acquapendente and studied at Padua, receiving an MD in 1559 under the guidance of Gabriel Fallopio where he eventually became professor of anatomy and surgery in Padua from 1562. One of his pupils during his tenure was William Harvey. Another was Adriaan van den Spieghel.
By dissecting animals, Fabricius investigated the formation of the fetus, the structure of the oesophagus, stomach and bowels, and the peculiarities of the eye, the ear and the larynx. His main claim to fame is the discovery of the membranous folds that he calls "valves" in the interior of veins. He did not know the purpose of these folds; however, they are now understood to prevent blood from flowing backwards. He is also famous for pioneering work that earned him the title of 'The Father of Embryology' in Italian medical science.
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Last updated on Tuesday July 15, 2008 at 19:31:22 PDT (GMT -0700)
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