In a monumental achievement, American scientists Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun have been awarded the esteemed Nobel Prize in Medicine for their pioneering work on microRNA and its pivotal role in gene regulation. This breakthrough discovery has unraveled a decades-long mystery, shedding light on the intricate mechanisms governing gene expression.
As revealed by the Nobel Assembly at Sweden’s Karolinska Institute, Ambros and Ruvkun’s revolutionary findings have far-reaching implications for our understanding of human health and disease. The jury praised their work, stating, “Their seminal discovery has introduced a novel principle of gene regulation, essential for multicellular organisms, including humans.”
Ruvkun, a 72-year-old professor at Harvard Medical School, expressed his astonishment upon receiving the news, saying, “It’s a tremendous honor, unlike any other award I’ve received.” He added, “The response has been overwhelming, TV crews, photographers, and countless messages from friends!”
Ruvkun and Ambros, longtime collaborators and friends, shared a heartfelt congratulatory video call. Ruvkun described Ambros as “always positive and wonderful.” The duo’s research focused on the humble roundworm, C. elegans, uncovering microRNA’s crucial role in gene regulation.
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Published in two seminal articles in 1993, their findings have paved the way for significant advancements in understanding embryological development, cell physiology, and diseases such as cancer.
Thomas Perlmann, secretary general of the Nobel Assembly, emphasized, “MicroRNAs have revealed an unexpected mechanism of gene regulation, vital for understanding human health and disease.” Gunilla Hedestam, a biology professor at the Karolinska Institute, noted, “Understanding microRNAs is the first step; several ongoing trials are exploring their potential in combating cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and kidney disorders.”
Ambros and Ruvkun will share the Nobel Prize, comprising a diploma, gold medal, and $1 million award.
The Nobel season continues, with upcoming announcements for physics, chemistry, literature, peace, and economics prizes.
