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Immune System Researchers Win Nobel Prize in Medicine

The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine has been awarded to an international team for their pioneering research on the immune system. The recipients, Mary E. Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell, and Shimon Sakaguchi, were recognized for their discoveries related to peripheral immune tolerance. This important work helps prevent the immune system from damaging the body, thus avoiding autoimmune diseases.

Award Announcement Details

The announcement was made by Sweden’s Karolinska Institute. This prestigious recognition, which includes a prize of 11 million Swedish kronor (approximately $1.17 million), will be shared among the winners. The award ceremony is scheduled for December.

Contributions to Immunology

Marie Wahren-Herlenius, a professor of rheumatology at the Karolinska Institute, emphasized the significance of their research. She noted that their findings are crucial for controlling the immune system, allowing the body to combat infections while preventing harmful autoimmune responses.

Key Discoveries

  • Shimon Sakaguchi’s initial key discovery in 1995.
  • Brunkow and Ramsdell’s breakthrough in 2001.
  • Sakaguchi’s synthesis of their work in 2003.

Olle Kampe, chair of the Nobel Committee, stated that their research has been “decisive” for understanding immune system functionality. The groundbreaking work of these scientists has laid the foundation for new therapeutic approaches, including treatments for cancer and autoimmune disorders.

Personal Reactions

Thomas Perlmann, Secretary-General of the Nobel Committee, spoke to Shimon Sakaguchi by phone shortly after the announcement. He reported that Sakaguchi expressed immense gratitude and viewed the recognition as a tremendous honor.

About the Nobel Prize

The Nobel Prize in Medicine is the first of the annual Nobel awards to be announced. These awards are considered some of the most prestigious in science, literature, peace, and economics. The announcement regarding the other Nobel categories will follow in the coming days.

While this year’s peace prize discussions included various nominees, it remains unlikely that prominent figures, such as former U.S. President Donald Trump, will be recognized based on past nomination deadlines.

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