George Mackie analysed the neural and epithelial mechanisms controlling the behaviour of coelenterates and other invertebrates. George was the first to show that epithelial cells could propagate action potentials, and he has made the major contribution to our knowledge of the role epithelial conduction plays in coelenterates and tunicates. He was an outstanding experimental zoologist who has made an unusual number of interesting discoveries in several fields, including: the control of luminescence and glandular secretion; the control of cilia; and later, the control of swimming patterns in a medusa by separate sodium and calcium spikes in the same axon. His work on hexactinellid sponges revolutionised knowledge of their histology and physiology.

Professor George Mackie FRS die din August 2023.