The work of Matthias Schleiden and Theodor Schwann can be summarized by their formulation of the cell theory, which states that:
- All living organisms are composed of one or more cells.
- The cell is the basic unit of life.
- All cells arise from pre-existing cells.
Schleiden, a botanist, contributed to the understanding of plant cells, whereas Schwann, a zoologist, focused on animal cells. Together, their research laid the foundation for modern biology by establishing that cells are fundamental to the structure and function of all living things.