Yoshinori Ohsumi
Biologist, 2016 Nobel Prize winner
A prominent biologist, contributions primarily focused on autophagy, the process by which cells degrade and recycle their components. Work provided foundational insights into cellular processes, significantly influencing the understanding of various biological functions. Conducted pioneering experiments that established the importance of autophagy in health and disease. Research has implications for cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2016 for research on autophagy
Identified key genes regulating autophagy in yeast
Other People Born on February 9th
Anthony Hope
English author and playwright, The Prisoner of Zenda
Born
February 9th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1933 92 years ago — 70 years old
An English author and playwright contributed significantly to literature in the late 19th century. Best remembered for the adventure novel 'The Prisoner of Zenda' published in 1894, which became a classic of the genre and inspired numerous adaptations. Other works include 'Rupert of Hentzau' and various plays. Hope's writing combined elements of romance and adventure, establishing a template followed by later writers of romantic fiction. In addition to fiction, engaged in theatrical works, producing several plays during his career. Hope's narrative style and innovative storylines left a lasting legacy in English literature.
Continue ReadingHara Takashi
Japanese Prime Minister and politician
Born
February 9th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1921 104 years ago — 65 years old
Held the position of the 10th Prime Minister of Japan from 1918 until assassination in 1921. Advocated for political reform and modernization of Japan's governance. Played a significant role in the expansion of Japan's political party system, promoting the greater involvement of the populace in politics. His policies aimed to address social issues and responded to the growing pressure for democratic reforms within the country.
Continue ReadingVasily Zhukovsky
Russian poet and translator of lyric poetry
Born
February 9th, 1783 242 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1852 173 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent figure in Russian literature, contributed significantly to the development of romantic poetry. Translated works of notable poets such as Lord Byron and brought changes to Russian versification. Established himself as a leading poet in the early 19th century, influencing future generations of writers. Served as a mentor to many younger poets, including Alexander Pushkin, and helped establish the poetic form that became characteristic of Russian Romanticism.
Continue ReadingNatsume Sōseki
Japanese author and poet
Born
February 9th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1916 109 years ago — 49 years old
Born in 1867, an influential Japanese author and poet. Literature primarily focused on the complexities of the human experience within the context of Japanese society. Notable works include the novels 'I Am a Cat' and 'Kokoro', both reflecting deep philosophical insights and character studies. Contributed significantly to the modernization of Japanese literature during the Meiji era.
Continue ReadingJohannes Meursius
Classical Scholar and Philologist
Born
February 9th, 1579 446 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1639 386 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1579, a noted classical scholar and philologist. Contributed extensively to the study of ancient Greek and Latin texts. His works included editions of important classical authors, notably the texts of Herodotus, Thucydides, and others. Meursius also delved into inscriptions and ancient history, producing significant scholarly contributions that furthered the understanding of classical antiquity. His academic career included positions at various universities where he influenced the field of classical studies.
Continue ReadingTex Hughson
Baseball player and All-Star pitcher
Born
February 9th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1993 32 years ago — 77 years old
This individual played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1941 to 1945, primarily with the Boston Red Sox. Notable for his strong pitching arm, achieved an All-Star selection in 1945. Pitched a career-high of 20 wins in the 1944 season. After his playing days, transitioned into coaching and continued involvement in baseball.
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