The method of optogenetics discovered by the laureates allows for the study and control of nerve cells using light, laying the foundation for a new era in neuroscience.
Laureates:
Karl Deisseroth (Stanford University, Howard Hughes Medical Institute)
Peter Hegemann (Humboldt University of Berlin)
Georg Nagel (University of Würzburg)
Scientific breakthrough:
Discovery: Peter Hegemann and Georg Nagel discovered channelrhodopsin protein in a unicellular alga.
Application: Karl Deisseroth transformed this protein into a light-controlled “switch” for nerve cells:
Result: The method demonstrates how nerve cells form memories, emotions, and behavior in a living brain.
What to expect next: With the announcement of the medical prize, Nobel Week has begun:
October 6: Physics
October 7: Chemistry
October 8: Literature
October 9: Peace Prize (Oslo)
October 12: Economics
