Scientist of the week: Gabriella Morreale de Escobar, an Italian-born Spanish chemist. Her work, specialised in the thyroid, has saved (and still saves) thousands of lives.

Her early research showed that thyroxine (T4) is converted to triiodothyronine (T3), both of which are responsible for regulation of metabolism. She also developed radioimmunoassays for the detection of these metabolites.

Morreale also implemented a national newborn screening program in Spain for congenital hypothyroidism, the very beginning of what we know today as neonatal heel prick. Her research was also crucial to prevent the endemic goitre caused by iodine deficiency.

So let's acknowledge all the great work this awesome scientist did and how much it has improved our lives!
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