Role models that shaped Scandinavian immunology

Three of Scandinavian immunology's major influencers in the last century (to use modern terminology), Morten Harboe, Jakob B. Natvig and Eric Thorsby, died earlier this year. obituaries issue Journal Immunology give appreciations their achievements. The articles provide inspiring recollections scientific accomplishments? these immunologists, resulting from fascination then unsolved mysterious features immune reactions humoral cellular nature. immunology field has advanced tremendously 50 years. This becomes clear when reading about questions posed at start Harboe's, Natvig's Thorsby's respective careers. complexities system were only starting to be defined back comparison with today, that asked much more fundamental dealing overall function cells soluble factors. A sense nostalgia sneaks in, accompanied by a wish have been part early days we less concerned details conceptual problems. However, should not overrated. It is easy look light today's methodology knowledge. In days, did FACS, could sequence clone genes techniques produce monoclonal antibodies had invented. Thus, while exciting conceptually, time also frustrating, encompassing complex assays for indirect results interpreted cautiously. complexity remains but possibility ease which big unbiased data sets can generated increases demands ?of definitive conclusions seminars publications. Because this, are inclined ask, even answer, questions, it impossible publish papers attempting attack question broader than what your combination molecular assay manage. I am sure long run, advancement science will benefit all detail now provided, regard being scientist, careful lose picture ocean available descriptive data. Major regarding immunity as whole remain, least vivo. next generation immunologists need stimulated mentors ask naïve put things into perspective stimulate creative thinking. brings me three giants who recently passed. They took roles very seriously, supervising younger scientists along careers, stimulating them broad triggered curiosity. Equally important, they responsibility development field, including founding leading international societies, chairing departments, organizing conferences, and, pivotal, supporting journals such Immunology.1 important recognize legacies our predecessors times efforts, resources engagements takes us fulfil reviewer's journal's overwhelming. We must forget ambassadeurs discipline, role increasing seniority. Thorsby models respect. By following suit, take future generations discipline.