Nobel Prize for medicine awarded to immune system researchers

Mary E. Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell, and Shimon Sakaguchi have been awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their groundbreaking research on the human immune system. Their work focuses on "peripheral immune tolerance" which prevents the immune system from attacking the body. The prize, amounting to 11 million Swedish kronor ($1.17 million), will be shared equally among the three researchers, with a ceremony set for December.

Their research aids in controlling the immune system to fight diseases while avoiding autoimmune issues. The discoveries have paved the way for new treatments for cancer and autoimmune diseases. Sakaguchi's key findings date back to 1995, with further breakthroughs by Brunkow and Ramsdell in 2001. The Nobel awards will continue over the coming days.