The Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institute has honored Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun with the 2024 Nobel Prize in Medicine for their pioneering discovery of microRNA, a crucial regulator of gene activity. Their research revealed a new principle of gene regulation essential for multicellular organisms, including humans.
Breakthrough Discovery:
Ambros and Ruvkun's findings showed how microRNA molecules control gene expression, enabling cells to "switch on" specific genes. This insight has far-reaching implications for understanding development, disease, and gene regulation.
Impact on Human Health:
Dysregulation of gene activity can lead to severe diseases like cancer, diabetes, and autoimmunity. The discovery of microRNA has opened new avenues for research into gene regulation and its role in human health.
Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun, both American scientists, conducted their groundbreaking research in the 1990s. Ambros is currently a Professor at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, while Ruvkun is Professor of Genetics at Harvard Medical School.
This year’s Nobel Prize (Physiology or Medicine) focuses on the discovery of a vital regulatory mechanism used in cells to control gene activity. Genetic information flows from DNA to messenger RNA (mRNA), via a process called transcription, and then on to the cellular machinery for protein production. There, mRNAs are translated so that proteins are made according to the genetic instructions stored in DNA.
The Nobel Prize Release
The Nobel Prize recognizes exceptional contributions to medicine, benefiting humanity. Since 1901, the award has honored pioneers in medical research.
Upcoming Nobel Prize Announcements:
The Nobel Prize announcements continue throughout the week, with Physics (Tuesday), Chemistry (Wednesday), Literature (Thursday), Peace (Friday), and Economics (October 14).
(Input From Various Sources)
(Rehash/Neha Kamble/MSM)
