1901-1992

A German-born American biologist who was considered the foremost embryologist in the world for over 40 years. He is best remembered for his theories regarding the formation of specialized cells, tissues, and organs from the undifferentiated early embryo. Holtfreter demonstrated that embryo development was due to directed cell movement. His research dealt primarily with the development and differentiation of amphibian embryos, and he contributed many lines of research that are still active today.