Donald E. Ganem, M.D.

Electron Micrograph of KS Virus

This electron micrograph is the first picture ever taken of the virus that causes Kaposi's sarcoma (KS). We were the first group to grow the virus successfully in a tissue culture, and this picture is part of the proof that we had done so.

We also conducted biochemical experiments that indicated our successful growth of the virus, and of course we knew that KSHV was a member of the herpes virus family. Since herpes viruses have a characteristic appearance, we pretty much knew what the picture would look like. But seeing the actual image — the visual confirmation that we had indeed taken a big step forward — was a thrilling event nonetheless. It was an unforgettable moment, one of the most exciting of my entire career.