Well, I don't think I could have read this book at a more prominent time!!
Written by Meredith Wadman, a doctor based in Washington, DC, this non-fiction book, focusses on the journey of vaccine development in the 1960's. It is filled with fascinating information and impeccable referencing, describing the scientists involved and their various studies; those that were ethically sound, and those that most certainly weren't...
One of these prominent scientists was Leonard Hayflick, the founder of 'The Hayflick Limit' -- basically, the fact that cells in the lab can't just keep growing forever! He was able to master the art of growing cells and became instrumental in the techniques we (including me!) still use today.
The book goes on to discuss the various diseases that plagued the time period, including rubella and polio. These are horrendous conditions that lead to horrible symptoms and even death in those that suffer from them. This highlighted the importance of a vaccine amongst scientists, leading to a race to see who could be the first to successfully develop one...
One of the biggest shocks for me was the reality of the research trials that took place during those times and just how unethical they were. The stories that are told are truly shocking, and I think its so important these truths were revealed to ensure nothing of the same nature continues moving forward... As a scientist, I can reassure you ethics are number one priority in any modern day experiments and research trials, but its fascinating to see how different this was even a short time ago.
For me, the best thing about the book was its realism... There are sections that feel rushed - as the scientists would have felt at the time, and sections where you can feel the agony of the researchers getting knocked down time and time again. It feels real, and it feels authentic.
I would truly recommend this book, especially to those that are completing research with cells or human samples -- it tells us of the history behind this and the reasons behind the technology and methodology still used to this day.. It's fascinating!
Sorry for a nerdy post guys, but it was needed!!
Stay safe,
B x
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