Three distinguished scientists, Mary Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell, and Shimon Sakaguchi, were awarded the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their groundbreaking work on peripheral immune tolerance, as announced by the Nobel committee.
Their research delves into how the human body regulates its immune system to combat various pathogens while preventing autoimmune diseases. This discovery has paved the way for innovative treatments in areas like cancer and autoimmune conditions, marking a significant advancement in medical science.
Brunkow, affiliated with the Institute for Systems Biology in Seattle, Ramsdell from Sonoma Biotherapeutics in San Francisco, and Sakaguchi, a renowned professor at Osaka University in Japan, have collectively identified regulatory T cells that act as guardians, safeguarding the immune system from attacking the body itself.
Expressing his astonishment, Sakaguchi acknowledged the honor during a press briefing in Osaka, Japan, where he was interrupted by a congratulatory call from Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. Despite the recognition, Sakaguchi emphasized the need for further progress in the field to benefit clinical applications.
Following the announcement, it was revealed that numerous trials involving regulatory T cells are currently underway, with over 200 human trials in progress. Companies like Sonoma Biotherapeutics, supported by Regeneron, and Quell Therapeutics, in partnership with AstraZeneca, are at the forefront of developing therapies focusing on diseases like inflammatory bowel disease.
The Nobel Prize, established by Alfred Nobel, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to humanity. Apart from Physiology or Medicine, Nobel prizes are also awarded for achievements in physics, chemistry, literature, and peace, each carrying a substantial cash award.
The upcoming Nobel Prize ceremonies for chemistry, physics, literature, and peace are scheduled throughout the week, with the laureates set to receive their awards on December 10th, commemorating Alfred Nobel’s legacy.
