Nobel Prize Honors Discovery of Immune System Guardians
Three scientists received the Nobel Prize in Medicine for discovering the immune system's regulatory T-cells. These cells prevent the body from attacking its own tissues while fighting diseases. The finding opens new treatment possibilities for autoimmune conditions.
Three scientists won the Nobel Prize in Medicine for discovering how our immune system protects the body. Mary E Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell and Shimon Sakaguchi identified regulatory T-cells that prevent immune attacks on our own tissues.
These cells act as security guards for the immune system. They stop white blood cells from damaging the body while still fighting foreign substances.
Shimon Sakaguchi expressed his excitement about the award. He said he and his wife look forward to visiting Stockholm for the December ceremony.
Prize officials noted that two winners had not yet learned about their Nobel recognition when the announcement was made.
Professor Marie Wahren-Herlenius explained how these T-cells work. They have receptors that recognize different substances in the body. When these receptors mistakenly identify the body's own tissues as threats, autoimmune diseases can develop.
Type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis are examples of such conditions. The discovery opens new research paths for treating autoimmune disorders.
The Nobel Prize ceremony will take place in Stockholm this December. This recognition highlights Sweden's continued importance in global scientific advancement.
This breakthrough shows how basic research can transform medical understanding. The discovery of regulatory T-cells fundamentally changed how scientists view immune system regulation.