Rita Levi-Montalcini, 30 Years of her Nobel prize

Thirty Years have passed since the famed Italian neurobiologist, Rita Levi-Montalcini, was awarded the Nobel Prize
of Medicine or Physiology. Her outstanding career in the field of neuroscience was an example for all scientists and
researchers, but moreover, her life was an example for all of mankind. This remarkable woman endured a staggering
amount of obstacles in order to become a doctor, and a scientist. She prevailed above them, and lived a life of success,
wisdom and principle. We wish to honor her achievements and reflect upon her awe-inspiring life.
Key Words: History, Neuroscience, Nobel Prize, Neural Growth Factor (NGF)
In 1986, Italian neurobiologist Rita Levi-Montalcini was awarded the Nobel Prize of Medicine or Physiology alongside
biochemist Stanley Cohen, for their discovery of nerve growth factors (1-3). She was the fourth woman to
ever receive a Nobel prize. Her life and work are an example of science, humanism, selflessness and perseverance,
in spite of the many difficulties she had to endure. Her life, very highly regarded amongst scientists, also stands as
an example of a fair and just woman, who fought many years for gender equity, and overall dignity of mankind (3).
The purpose of this work is to honor and remember the life of this remarkable scientist, on the 30th anniversary
of her Nobel.