Nobel Prize Awarded For Discovery Of Microrna In Medicine

This picture released by UMass shows Victor Ambros, PhD, the Silverman Chair in Natural Sciences and professor of molecular medicine at UMass Chan in Worcester, Mass., Feb. 7, 2024. (Faith Ninivaggi v

The Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine was awarded to Americans Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun for their groundbreaking discovery of microRNA, a crucial genetic material that influences gene function at the cellular level and holds promise for innovative cancer treatments.

The Nobel Assembly at the Karolinska Institute highlighted the significance of Ambros and Ruvkun's work, stating that their discovery has proven to be fundamental in understanding how organisms develop and function.

Ambros conducted his research at Harvard University and is currently a professor at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, while Ruvkun's research was carried out at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School.

MicroRNA influences gene function at the cellular level.

Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun awarded Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.

Discovery fundamental in understanding organism development and function.

Research conducted at Harvard University and Massachusetts General Hospital.

MicroRNA regulates gene activity and holds promise for cancer therapy.

Potential of microRNA in developing drugs and disease biomarkers highlighted.

Nobel Prize marks the beginning of this year's award season.

Clinical trials exploring microRNA-based treatments for skin cancer underway.

Expectations of regulatory approval for microRNA treatments within the next decade.

Laureates to be honored at ceremonies on Dec. 10.

The duo's interest in genes controlling genetic development timing led them to study mutant strains of worms, ultimately identifying the role of microRNA in gene regulation. This mechanism has played a vital role in the evolution of organisms over millions of years.

MicroRNA's ability to regulate gene activity at the cellular level has opened up new avenues in disease treatment, particularly in cancer therapy. Dr. Claire Fletcher, a molecular oncology lecturer at Imperial College London, emphasized the potential of microRNA in developing drugs and serving as biomarkers for various diseases.

Last year's Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded for discoveries enabling mRNA vaccines against COVID-19, underscoring the critical role of scientific advancements in combating global health challenges.

The Nobel Prize carries a cash award of 11 million Swedish kronor ($1 million) and marks the beginning of this year's Nobel prizes award season, with announcements for physics, chemistry, literature, peace, and economic sciences to follow.

Clinical trials are underway to explore microRNA-based treatments for skin cancer, with expectations of regulatory approval within the next decade. Fletcher highlighted the potential of microRNA in revolutionizing disease treatment by targeting gene activity at a fundamental level.

The laureates will be honored at ceremonies on Dec. 10, commemorating the legacy of Alfred Nobel, the prize's creator.