World

US Scientists Honored With 2024 Nobel Prize In Medicine For MicroRNA Innovation

In a significant recognition of groundbreaking research, the Nobel Assembly at Sweden’s Karolinska Institutet has awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine to American scientists Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun for their pioneering work on microRNA and its crucial function in regulating gene expression after transcription.

The duo’s discovery revealed a pivotal principle of gene activity regulation, introducing microRNA as a new class of small RNA molecules integral to gene regulation.

Their research uncovered a novel dimension of gene regulation, vital for the development and functioning of multicellular organisms, including humans.

Their investigations demonstrated that the human genome encodes over a thousand distinct microRNAs, which play essential roles in organismal development and physiological processes.

Nobel Assembly Highlights MicroRNAs’ Role In Gene Regulation

The Nobel Assembly emphasized the importance of their findings, stating, “Whereas proteins in the nucleus regulate RNA transcription and splicing, microRNAs control the translation and degradation of mRNA in the cytoplasm.”

This groundbreaking insight highlights an unforeseen layer of post-transcriptional gene regulation that is crucial throughout animal development and in various adult cell types, underscoring its significance for complex multicellular life.

As part of their recognition, Ambros and Ruvkun will share a monetary award of 11 million Swedish crowns, equivalent to approximately $1.1 million.

Victor Ambros, born in 1953 in New Hampshire, completed his PhD at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1979, where he continued his postdoctoral research until 1985.

He currently holds the position of Silverman Professor of Natural Science at the University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Meanwhile, Gary Ruvkun, born in California in 1952, earned his PhD from Harvard University in 1982 and is currently a Professor of Genetics at Harvard Medical School.

The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine is conferred annually by the assembly of 50 professors at the Karolinska Institutet to honor individuals who have made substantial contributions to medicine, benefiting humanity at large.

Also Read: PM Modi Reaffirms Maldives’ Key Role In India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ & SAGAR Vision

Mankrit Kaur

Recent Posts

PM Modi Unveils 21-Point Action Plan To Boost BIMSTEC Cooperation At Bangkok Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday unveiled a 21-point action plan at the BIMSTEC Summit…

2 hours ago

Buddhism In India’s Foreign Policy: PM Modi’s Vision For Global Harmony

PM Modi has been at the forefront of strengthening India’s ties with Buddhist nations, putting…

2 hours ago

6 Surprising Benefits Of Turmeric Milk For Your Health

Turmeric milk, often referred to as 'golden milk', has been a staple in traditional medicine.…

2 hours ago

PM Narendra Modi Meets Bangladesh’s Muhammad Yunus During BIMSTEC Summit In Bangkok

PM Narendra Modi met Bangladesh's Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus in Bangkok, their first meeting since…

2 hours ago

India’s Leadership Brings Fresh Momentum To BIMSTEC Under PM Modi’s Vision

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership has revitalized BIMSTEC, positioning India as a key driver of…

3 hours ago

MI New York Announces Star-Studded Signings For Major League Cricket 2025

MI New York has unveiled an impressive roster of players for the 2025 edition of…

3 hours ago