Who first saw and described a live cell

Options

A. Anton von Leeuwenhoek
B. Matthias Scheiden
C. Theodore Schwan
D. Rudolf Virchow

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks who first saw and described a live cell. This requires knowledge of historical figures in biology and their contributions.

2. **Identifying the Options**: The options provided are:
- Anton von Leeuwenhoek
- Matthias Schleiden
- Theodor Schwann
- Rudolf Virchow

3. **Researching Each Option**:
- **Anton von Leeuwenhoek**: He was a Dutch scientist known for his work with microscopes and is often referred to as the father of microbiology. He was the first to observe and describe live cells in the 17th century.
- **Matthias Schleiden**: He was a botanist who contributed to the cell theory but did not describe live cells.
- **Theodor Schwann**: He was a zoologist who also contributed to the cell theory, focusing on animal cells.
- **Rudolf Virchow**: He is known for his work in pathology and for stating that all cells come from pre-existing cells, but he did not describe live cells.

4. **Conclusion**: Based on the research, Anton von Leeuwenhoek is the correct answer as he was the first to observe and describe live cells.

5. **Final Answer**: Anton von Leeuwenhoek.

---