2024 Nobel Prize in Medicine Awarded to Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun for MicroRNA Discovery
Significant Contribution of MicroRNA to Gene Regulation
The 2024 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine has been awarded to US-based scientists Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun. They were recognized for their groundbreaking work on microRNA, and its role in post-transcriptional gene regulation. This year's award celebrates their contribution to understanding a fundamental principle of gene activity regulation.
Discoveries in Cell Development and Gene Regulation
The duo's research primarily focused on the development of different cell types, leading to the discovery of microRNA. Ambros and Ruvkun discovered microRNA, a new class of tiny RNA molecules that play a crucial role in gene regulation, according to an official statement. Their research unveiled an entirely new principle of gene regulation, essential for multicellular organisms including humans.
- Human genome codes for over 1,000 microRNAs
- MicroRNAs are critical for organism development and function
- Impairments in gene regulation linked to serious diseases such as cancer, autoimmunity, and diabetes
Understanding the regulation of gene activity has been a major goal for decades. The information stored within our chromosomes can be compared to an instruction manual for all cells in our body. The Nobel Prizes will be announced between October 7-14, with a prize money of 11 million Swedish crowns. The medicine prize is the first in the series of Nobels, arguably the most prestigious prizes in science, literature, and humanitarian endeavor. The other five will be revealed over the subsequent days.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.