Stockholm, Oct 7: Scientists Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun have been awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in Medicine for their groundbreaking discovery of microRNA and its vital function in gene regulation. The Nobel assembly announced the recognition today, noting that their work unveiled a new layer of gene regulation crucial for multicellular organisms, including humans.
MicroRNAs are small RNA molecules that significantly influence gene expression, impacting various biological processes and diseases. The assembly highlighted that this discovery has reshaped our understanding of genetics and its relevance to health.
Established by Alfred Nobel’s will, the Nobel Prizes have been awarded since 1901 for major achievements in science, literature, and peace. While the physiology or medicine prize is awarded in Stockholm, the Peace Prize is given in Oslo due to historical connections between the two nations.
Notable past winners in medicine include Ivan Pavlov, honored in 1904 for his research on conditioned reflexes, and Alexander Fleming, who shared the 1945 prize for penicillin’s discovery. Last year’s prize was awarded to Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman for their crucial work in developing COVID-19 vaccines.
The ceremony honoring this year’s laureates will be held on December 10, the anniversary of Alfred Nobel’s death, followed by a banquet at Stockholm’s city hall.