The Nobel Prize in Medicine for 2024 was awarded to American scientists Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun for their groundbreaking discovery of microRNA, a key mechanism in regulating gene activity. Their discovery is critical in understanding how organisms develop and function, influencing areas like gene expression and developmental biology. Ambros conducted his award-winning research at Harvard University and is now a professor at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. Ruvkun performed his research at Massachusetts General Hospital and is a professor of genetics at Harvard Medical School.
Thomas Perlmann, the Secretary-General of the Nobel Committee, shared that when he informed Ruvkun of the news, the laureate was initially tired but quickly became excited and grateful after realizing the significance of the call.
This award follows the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, which was given to Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman for their pivotal role in the development of mRNA vaccines used to combat COVID-19. The Nobel Prize in Medicine includes a cash reward of 11 million Swedish kronor (about $1 million), and it kicks off this year’s Nobel Prize announcements, with awards in physics, chemistry, literature, and peace being announced later in the week. The award ceremony for all laureates will take place on December 10, marking the anniversary of Alfred Nobel’s death.