The Disappearing Spoon: a science history podcast with Sam Kean · Sam Kean, Bleav
The Would-Be Saint's Battle over Down Syndrome
April 8, 2025·19 min·1 clip
Marta Gauthier counted 47 chromosomes in a Down syndrome patient, discovering they have an extra chromosome.
As heard by us
A chromosome breakthrough that turns into a very public fight over credit and control.
The episode turns a strange corner of science history into a courtroom-shaped feud over who first pinned down the chromosome cause of Down syndrome, and who got the credit.
Why you'd press play
A chromosome discovery story that turns into a courtroom libel scare.
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