US researchers David Julius and Ardem Patapoutian score the top prize for their “profound discovery” on receptors and touch.
The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine has been awarded to two US researchers working on the discovery of a lifetime.
The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine has been awarded for the discovery of receptors for temperature and touch.
The two winners, US scientists David Julius and Ardem Patapoutian were announced on Monday by the secretary-general of the Nobel committee.
Julius, born on November 4, 1955 is in affiliation with the University of California, San Francisco while Beirut-born researcher Patapoutian is an affiliate of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute in California.
The researches used chilli to identify the nerve sensors responsible for the skin responding to heat while other pressure-sensitive sensors were found that react to mechanical stimulation.
Such discoveries launched intense research into how heat, cold, and mechanical stimuli is sensed by the human nervous system.
Additionally, it’s helped enhance scientific understanding into the complex relationship between human senses and the environment.
BREAKING NEWS: The 2021 #NobelPrize in Physiology or Medicine has been awarded jointly to David Julius and Ardem Patapoutian “for their discoveries of receptors for temperature and touch.” pic.twitter.com/gB2eL37IV7
David Julius has been working on this research alongside his co-workers since the late 1990s.
Since then, he’s been trying to understand how the chemical compound capsaicin causes the burning sensation felt when coming into contact with chili peppers.
As part of the research, Julius and his fellow co-workers came up with a library of DNA fragments which matched to genes that are expressed in the sensory neurons.
A long, laborious search followed until a single gene that made cells capsaicin-sensitive was identified.
Julius and Patapoutian then underwent further research, contributing to the groundbreaking discoveries they’ve made today.
A discovery “crucial for survival”.
The Nobel committee says it’s a “profound discovery” that is “crucial for our survival”.
Their research is helping other researchers develop treatments for a wide range of disease conditions, including chronic pain.
The scientists were awarded a gold medal and more than 10 million Swedish kronor.
It’s the first Nobel prize this year, with more to come over the next week.
American Express reveals Australian homeowner bill payment insights
In response to the growing trend of card and tap-and-go payments, organisations are adapting their systems to accommodate diverse payment options.
American Express recently conducted research shedding light on homeowner sentiments towards local councils, with a focus on Australian attitudes and behaviours related to bill payments.
Vice President and General Manager of Global merchant services at American Express, Robert Tedesco, provides his insights.
Tennis sensation Nick Kyrgios sent shockwaves through the sports and entertainment world today as he revealed a surprising career move.
The Australian athlete, known for his fiery on-court antics and charismatic personality, has announced his entry into the world of OnlyFans, a platform typically associated with adult content creators.
In an unexpected turn of events, Kyrgios took to social media to share the news with his followers. He stated, “I’ve always enjoyed pushing boundaries and breaking the mold. I’m excited to announce that I’ll be joining OnlyFans to share exclusive content and connect with my fans in a new way.”
The announcement has left fans and pundits alike wondering what kind of content Kyrgios will be sharing on the platform.
The decision has sparked a debate about the intersection of sports and social media, as well as the evolving landscape of content creation.
Some fans are eagerly anticipating behind-the-scenes glimpses of Kyrgios’s life, while others are questioning the potential impact on his professional tennis career.