Ambros and Ruvkun: Nobel Prize Winners for the Discovery of MicroRNA

American scientists Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun have been jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in medicine or physiology for their shared discovery of microRNA and its role in post-transcriptional gene regulation. The announcement by the Nobel Assembly described microRNA as a molecule that has opened a new field in gene regulation.

Their research, initiated with the roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans, led to the identification of microRNA as an unexpected mechanism of gene regulation, impacting embryological development, normal cell physiology, and diseases like cancer. Despite working in separate labs, Ambros and Ruvkun combined resources to uncover the influence of microRNA on gene expression.

The Impact of MicroRNA on Genetics:

MicroRNA’s role in gene regulation was a pivotal discovery that unlocked new possibilities in understanding organism metabolism. More than 1,000 microRNA genes have been found in humans, and the conservation of microRNA across species highlights its essential function in biological evolution.

Future Applications and Challenges:

While the Nobel Prize recognizes foundational research, ongoing clinical trials are exploring the potential of microRNA technology in developing vaccine-type products for various diseases. The challenge lies in targeting specific genes effectively without causing unintended effects.

As the scientific community celebrates Ambros and Ruvkun’s groundbreaking research, the Nobel Prize serves as a testament to the vital contributions of genetic discoveries in advancing medical science.