Neuroscientist Ben Barres, who identified crucial roles of glial cells, dies at 63
The Stanford neuroscientist’s research focused on the cells in the brain that aren’t nerve cells. Collectively called glia, these “other” cells play a central role in sculpting and maintaining the brain’s wiring diagram.
Dec 27 2017
Acclaimed Stanford neuroscientist Ben Barres, MD, PhD, died on Dec. 27, 20 months after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He was 63.
Barres’ path-breaking discoveries of the crucial roles played by glial cells — the unsung majority of brain cells, which aren’t nerve cells — revolutionized the field of neuroscience.
[...] A professor of neurobiology, of developmental biology and of neurology, Barres was widely praised as a stellar and passionate scientist whose methodologic rigor was matched only by his energy and enthusiasm. He was devoted to his scholarly pursuits and to his trainees, advocating unrelentingly on their behalf. He especially championed the cause of women in academia, with whom he empathized; he was transgender.
“Ben was a remarkable person. He will be remembered as a brilliant scientist who transformed our understanding of glial cells and as a tireless advocate who promoted equity and diversity at every turn,” said Marc Tessier-Lavigne, PhD, president of Stanford University. “He was also a beloved mentor to students and trainees, a dear friend to many in our community and a champion for the fundamental dignity of us all.” (Read Tessier-Lavigne's tribute to Barres.)
Added Lloyd Minor, MD, dean of the School of Medicine, “Through courage and determination, Ben not only changed the course of neuroscience, he touched many lives. He was an inspiration, and I, like so many others, am a better person for having known him.”
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[links in original] Besides reading the remainder of the item, readers are urged to also access the personal obit, also published online on Dec. 27, by Stanford University's President, whose professional career interlaced with that of Barres as each advanced the world's knowledge of medical science and the mind.
As we go into 2018 may we be thankful we have in our nation educated and compassionate people, lovers of science and of freedom.