James V. Neel

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James Van Gundia Neel (March 22, 1915 – February 1, 2000) was an American

In 1956, Neel established the University of Michigan Department of Genetics, the first department of human genetics at a medical school in the United States. He was elected a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 1971.^[2]

Controversy

Theories and Allegations

Neel first found the inheritance of sickle cell anemia through its genetic basis. This was the first step to learning all of what we know genetically about sickle cell disease. He found that the sickle cell trait itself was heterozygous and the disease was expressed when the gene was recessive homozygous. This was very difficult to figure out at the time with the current knowledge and while he did not find the relationship between malaria and sickle cell himself his work did provide the foundation for it being discovered.

Neel developed the "

Darkness in El Dorado^[3]

A journalist by the name of Patrick Tierny published information that discredited James in relation to his work in the Amazon with the Yanomami population. He allegated many of things which among them were that he studied the genome of the Yanomami to compare with mutations among the survivors in the atomic bombing in Japan. To that, it was said that unethical practices were performed with the Yanomami population and that radioactive iodine injections were used to find leadership genes from the headmen of Yanomami. These allegations were later to be found without evidence from various examiners. ^[4]

Neel was especially focused on comprehending the

Among majority allegations against James, there is a memo to the Neel family that was made in hopes to clear James of all allegations. This can be found here: https://dwhume.com/darkness-in-el-dorado-controversy/0167.htm

Another link to how James conducted scientific collaboration in Latin America: https://www.scielo.br/j/gmb/a/MFFkDDXQ9B45Dd3pP4hjRtn/?lang=en

Link to picture of James with Yanomamo men in South America: https://diglib.amphilsoc.org/islandora/object/graphics%3A1624

Organizations

Neel was concerned with nuclear fallout and radiation damage. He was active in the Atomic Bomb Casualty Commission and the Radiation Effects Research Foundation. He testified several times before committees and sub-committees of the United States Congress as an expert witness regarding the long-term effects of radiation on human populations.

He was also involved with the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, the

• 1960 Albert Lasker Award for Basic Medical Research^[7]
• 1965 William Allan Award
• 1974 National Medal of Science

Works

James V. Neel contributed significantly to the development of modern human genetics throughout his career.

His notable works include:

• 1949: "The Inheritance of Sickle Cell Anemia"- Published in Science 110: 64-66, this paper explored how a single gene mutation is responsible for the inheritance of sickle cell anemia. Neel's research and analysis supported the pattern of a mutation occurrence in the hemoglobin subunit beta (HHB gene) which is responsible for providing instructions for the creation of the protein beta-globin.^[8] When this mutation occurs, red blood cells transform into a rigid, "sickle" shape that blocks blood vessels and leads to restriction of blood flow to tissue throughout the body. Neel also discussed how populations with higher rates of malaria correspond with higher rates of sickle cell disease.^[9]

• 1967: "The Web of History and the Web of Life: Atomic Bombs, Inbreeding and Japanese Genes"- Published in the Michigan Quarterly Review 6:202-209, Neel discussed the aftermath of atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.^[10]He examined the genetic repercussions of radiation exposure on the Japanese population, highlighting the induced genetic mutations due to the atomic bombs. He also delved into how the genetic health of human populations was affected by cultural and societal influences. Neel's research interests aligned with his leadership role in the Atomic Bomb Casualty Commission (ABCC).^[11]
• 1994: Physician to the Gene Pool: Genetic Lessons and Other Stories is a book written by James V. Neel, which was published by John Wiley and Sons in New York. In this work, Neel provided many insights into the world of human genetics through lessons and narratives. A collection of stories were intended to both amuse and educate readers about concepts and discoveries ranging from topics of inheritance patterns to consequences of genetic mutations.^[12]

Overall Impact

James V. Neel was a pivotal figure in the development of human genetics due to his research pursuits, leadership roles, and enduring vestige within the scientific community. From his investigations into the genetic effects of radiation exposure after the atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki to his leadership in founding the Department of Genetics at the University of Michigan, Neel has had an undeniable influence in shaping genetic research. His work with Sickle Cell Anemia provided insights into the genetic basis of the disease and its prevalence in populations exposed to malaria.^[13]

His prominence was further established by his membership to the National Academy of Sciences and the honor of multiple prestigious awards to recognize his groundbreaking contributions. Beyond his scientific achievements, Neel was an advocate for public health and stressed the importance of looking at genetic differences from an evolutionary angle. He made it known that we as a society should look at the bigger picture referencing genetic changes and genetic research should consider both biology and evolution.^[13]

Through his legacy, Neel continues to shape the trajectory of genetic research in humans and inspires future geneticists.

References