The renowned Colombian scientist Manuel Elkin Patarroyo died today at the age of 78 in Bogotá, succumbing to cardiac arrest. Patarroyo is internationally recognized for developing the first synthetic vaccine against malaria, known as SPf66.
The National University of Colombia, where Patarroyo worked as a professor for decades, confirmed the news through an official statement: “The Rectory of the National University of Colombia and its administrative team deeply regret the passing of Professor Manuel Elkin Patarroyo Murillo, Full Professor of the Department of Pathology at the Faculty of Medicine. Professor Patarroyo earned his medical degree from our university in 1971 and joined as a professor in 1972, continuing his tenure until today.”
The professional legacy of scientist Manuel Elkin Patarroyo
Manuel Elkin Patarroyo graduated as a medical doctor from the National University of Colombia in 1971. He continued his education with a specialization in Immunology at Yale University and conducted postdoctoral studies at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm. In 1983, he founded the Institute of Immunology at San Juan de Dios Hospital in Bogota, where he led impactful research on infectious diseases.
Among his most notable achievements was the development of the synthetic vaccine SPf66 against malaria between 1986 and 1988. Although the World Health Organization (WHO) later determined that the vaccine did not meet the required efficacy standards in clinical trials, his work was groundbreaking in the fight against infectious diseases and paved the way for advances in immunology.
Throughout his career, Patarroyo received numerous accolades, including the Prince of Asturias Award for Scientific and Technical Research in 1994 and the Robert Koch Prize. He was also awarded honorary doctorates by various universities and became a member of prestigious scientific academies.
In addition to his work on malaria, Patarroyo conducted research on AIDS, leprosy, and more recently contributed to the development of COVID-19 vaccines.
Patarroyo leaves an indelible legacy
The scientific community and the entire country mourn the loss of one of Colombia’s most important scientists. His work, dedication, and contributions to science have left a profound mark, not only nationally but also internationally.
Patarroyo will be remembered as a visionary whose passion for research inspired generations of scientists and students. His legacy will endure as a symbol of dedication and excellence in science.