Born: August 15, 1896 (Prague, Czech Republic)
Died: 1957
Biography:
Gerty Theresa Cori (née Radnitz) was a Czech-American biochemist who made significant contributions to the field of science. Born on August 15, 1896, in Prague, Gerty Cori was named after an Austrian warship, reflecting her parents’ desire for their daughter to have a strong and powerful name. Growing up in a time when women had limited educational opportunities, Gerty embraced her passion for learning and defied societal expectations.
Despite the prevailing gender biases, Gerty pursued her dream of becoming a medical doctor. She faced numerous challenges in accessing education but eventually gained admittance to medical school. It was during her time at medical school that she met her future husband, Carl Ferdinand Cori, in an anatomy class. Their shared interest in scientific research formed the foundation of their partnership.
After graduating in 1920, Gerty and Carl married. However, due to deteriorating conditions in Europe, the couple decided to emigrate to the United States in 1922. Determined to continue their scientific pursuits, Gerty Cori continued her research, collaborating with her husband in the laboratory. They co-published groundbreaking studies, as well as conducting research independently.
Despite her significant contributions, Gerty faced barriers in securing research positions and often received meager pay compared to her male counterparts. However, her passion for science and determination to make a difference kept her going. Gerty’s husband supported her wholeheartedly and insisted on continuing their collaboration, despite the institutions that discouraged it.
Gerty, along with her husband Carl and Argentine physiologist Bernardo Houssay, made a remarkable discovery that would revolutionize our understanding of carbohydrate metabolism. They elucidated the mechanism through which glycogen, a starch made from glucose, is broken down in muscle tissue into lactic acid. They further discovered how the body resynthesizes and stores glycogen as an energy source, a process now known as the Cori cycle. Additionally, they identified the crucial catalyzing compound, the Cori ester.
Their groundbreaking research earned Gerty, Carl, and Bernardo Houssay the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1947. Gerty became the first woman and the third woman overall to receive this prestigious honor in the field of science. It was a landmark achievement that shattered gender barriers and showcased the immense talent and contribution of women to the scientific community.
In recognition of their significant contributions to clarifying carbohydrate metabolism, Gerty and Carl Cori were designated as National Historic Chemical Landmarks in 2004. Their work has had a lasting impact on the understanding of how the human body utilizes energy and has paved the way for advancements in the treatment of metabolic disorders.
Gerty Cori remained actively involved in research until the end of her life. However, in 1957, she passed away after a ten-year battle with myelosclerosis. Her enduring legacy lives on through her pioneering work in biochemistry and her dedication to advancing scientific knowledge.