New Delhi: Two American scientists David Julius and Ardem Patpoutian were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. He was cited for discovering receptors for temperature and touch.
The winners were announced on Monday by Thomas Perlman, the Secretary-General of the Nobel Committee.
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According to an AP report, Patrick Ernfors of the Nobel Committee said that Julius, 65, used capsaicin, the active ingredient in chili peppers, to identify the nerve sensor that allows the skin to respond to heat. While Pataputian found different pressure-sensitive sensors in cells that respond to mechanical stimulation, he said.
According to the report, Perlman said, “It really opens up one of nature’s mysteries.”
“It’s really something that’s important to our existence, so it’s a very important and profound discovery.”
The coveted prize comes with a gold medal and 10 million Swedish kronor (over $1.14 million). The prize money comes from a will left by the prize’s creator, Swedish inventor Alfred Nobel, who died in 1895.
This is the first award to be awarded this year, the other awards being for outstanding work in the fields of physics, chemistry, literature, peace and economics.
Last year, British scientists Michael Houghton along with Harvey Alter and Charles Rice of the US were awarded the prize for their discovery of the hepatitis C virus, leading to the development of sensitive blood tests and antiviral drugs.
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