Three Win Nobel Prize for Immune Tolerance Breakthroughs
The 2025 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine has been awarded to Mary Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell, and Shimon Sakaguchi. The trio was recognised for their groundbreaking discoveries in the field of peripheral immune tolerance, which prevent the immune system from harming the body.
Their work, conducted independently in the late 1990s, has significantly advanced our understanding of the immune system's functioning. They identified regulatory T-lymphocytes (Tregs) as 'guardians' that prevent immune cells from attacking their host. This discovery has laid the foundation for understanding how the immune system distinguishes 'self' from 'non-self' cells.
The laureates' research showed that mutations in the FOXP3 gene lead to the loss of Tregs, resulting in severe immune tolerance disorders. Their findings have helped explain the nature of many autoimmune diseases, such as type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis. Moreover, their work has opened new avenues for treating these conditions, with several approaches currently in clinical trials. Their discoveries may also improve the effectiveness of transplants by helping the immune system accept foreign cells.
The 2025 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine honours Mary Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell, and Shimon Sakaguchi for their pivotal contributions to our understanding of peripheral immune tolerance. Their work has not only advanced scientific knowledge but also holds great promise for treating autoimmune diseases and improving transplantation outcomes.
