Abstract

SA.13.03

Johann Gottfried Zinn (1727-1759) – Botanist, Anatomist and Ophthalmologist

Peter Watson
Cambridge, United Kingdom

Objective: This presentation will consider the short life and work of Johann Zinn and will show the importance of his work in modern treatment of ischaemic changes in the eye.
Methods: The work of Zinn is traced through his books and illustrations. The accuracy of these observations have been investigated using modern imaging techniques The work of Zinn is traced through his books and illustrations. The accuracy of these observations have been investigated using modern imaging techniques
Results: Zinn studied medicine in Ansbach, Mittelfranken. He moved to Göttingen to work with Albrecht von Haller. After his doctorate he went to Berlin to study both botany and anatomy after which, in 1753he was appointed extraordinary Professor of Medicine and Director of the Botanical garden in Göttingen.
His Descriptio Anatomica Oculi Humani was published in 1755. This book, illustrated by the most superb and accurate etchings by Kaltenhofer, was the first accurate description of the structures which are remembered by the eponymous “Zinn/Haller plexus of vessels around the optic nerve, the”Annulus of Zinn” at the origin of the extraocular muscles and the zonules of Zinn which attach the lens to the ciliary body. His work in botany was acknowledged by Linneus who named the 24 Zinnia species of plant after him.
Modern imaging of the structures which bear his name show the accuracy of his illustrations. The knowledge of the vascular and topographical anatomy affects the understanding of the mechanisms of ischaemic changes in the optic nerve and choroid and influences decisions concerning their treatment.
Conclusions: Zinn’s anatomical observations are becoming more important now that potentially curative treatments are being developed to treat ischaemic ocular disease

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