By james art On a crisp autumn morning in Worcester, Victor R. Ambros, a distinguished professor at the UMass Chan School of Medicine, won the Nobel Prize for Medicine for his groundbreaking discovery of microRNA. This remarkable achievement not only celebrates his individual brilliance, but also highlights the institution’s growing influence in global medical research.
Informal but iconic: The press conference
During the press conference, instead of opting for a traditional suit and tie, Ambrose appeared in his favorite short-sleeved tiger print shirt, showing off his personal flair. “That’s my favorite shirt,” Ambrose remarked, noting that his wife, Rosalind “Candy” Leea senior scientist in his lab, had bought the shirt for him at a thrift store. The choice of clothing emphasized its approachable and unpretentious nature, making the event feel more intimate and personal.
The science of microRNAs
MicroRNAs have changed the game in molecular biology, providing insights into gene regulation that were previously unknown. Ambros, in collaboration with Gary Ruvkun from Harvard Medical School, pioneered the field by discovering how these small RNA molecules can control the activity of other genes that are critical to the development and management of disease. This discovery has major implications for the development of therapeutic strategies against complex diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, and various genetic diseases.
- Shared with: Gary Ruvkun, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School.
- Impact: It opens up potential new avenues for medical treatment.
- The survey began: Ambros and Ruvkun’s pioneering work began in the 1990s, focusing on gene regulation.
Craig Melo praises Ambrose
Craig Mello, who himself won the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 2006 for his work in RNA interference, described Ambrose’s victory as “long overdue.” Mello emphasized that Ambros was an instrumental mentor during his PhD, providing guidance that shaped his future research and career. Mello’s accolades further underscore the supportive and collaborative environment at UMass Chan that fosters innovative discoveries.
From failure to recognition
The road to recognition was not easy for Ambrose. After being denied tenure at Harvard—a decision a mentor later described as letting a potential Nobel laureate slip away—Ambros joined UMass Chan, where his work received the recognition it deserved. His journey is a testament to perseverance in the scientific community, culminating in the Lasker Prize for Basic Medical Research in 2008 and now the Nobel Prize.
A New Beginning at UMass Chan
Dr. Michael Collins, chancellor of UMass Chan, expressed his excitement virtually, noting that Ambrose’s team will begin work in a new lab on Tuesday. The move signifies UMass Chan’s commitment to cutting-edge research and its goal to lead innovations that will transform the field of medicine.
Global impact and future aspirations
The research conducted by Ambros and Ruvkun opened new horizons in the understanding of molecular biology with significant implications for health and disease. Their work on microRNA regulation is fundamental to how genes are expressed under different conditions, potentially leading to breakthroughs in treatment and prevention strategies for multiple diseases.
Recognition from Harvard
Meanwhile, Gary Ruvkun, celebrated alongside Ambrose, was honored at his home in Newton, where he emphasized the collaborative nature of their research. Harvard Medical School and the wider scientific community praised their work for its innovative approach to understanding gene regulation, an endeavor that changed modern medicine.
The Nobel Prize ceremony
The Nobel Prize ceremony, scheduled for December 10 in Sweden, promises to be a landmark event for Ambros and Ruvkun. They will receive a gold medal, a diploma and a cash prize, which Ambrose playfully noted will partly go to taxes, with the remainder potentially supporting a philanthropic foundation. This event not only marks a personal achievement, but also highlights the duo’s contribution to science and their potential to inspire future generations.
Legacy and continuing research
As Ambros prepares for the next chapter of his research career, the scientific community is watching with anticipation, anticipating further innovations that will continue to challenge and expand our understanding of biology and medicine. His legacy of curiosity and dedication inspires young scientists and creates a framework for future research in genetic regulation.