Henry Harris (scientist)

Henry Harris (1925-2014) was a British scientist renowned for his work in cell biology, particularly in the field of cell fusion. He made significant contributions to understanding gene regulation and the behavior of cancer cells.

Harris earned his medical degree from the University of Sydney in 1947 and later a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Oxford. He spent much of his career at the University of Oxford, where he held the position of Professor of Pathology and later Regius Professor of Medicine.

His key research involved the fusion of different types of cells, demonstrating that the resulting hybrid cells could express genes from both parental cells. This work provided crucial insights into the mechanisms that control gene expression and differentiation. He showed that the nucleus of one cell could influence the activity of the nucleus of another cell following fusion.

Harris’s work also had implications for cancer research. He investigated the genetic basis of malignancy and explored the differences in gene expression between normal and cancerous cells. He identified the role of suppressor genes in controlling tumor growth, arguing against the then prevalent notion that cancer was solely caused by the activation of oncogenes. He hypothesized that the loss of suppressor gene function could contribute to the development of cancer.

He was a Fellow of the Royal Society and received numerous awards and honors for his scientific achievements, including the Royal Medal and the Wolf Prize in Medicine. He authored several influential books, including "Cell Fusion" and "The Cancer Cell." Henry Harris's legacy lies in his pioneering research that significantly advanced our understanding of cell biology and the genetic basis of cancer.