Anticipation Builds for Nobel Prizes 2023: Key Contenders and Speculations
As the world gears up for the prestigious Nobel Prize announcements, beginning with the Nobel Prize in Medicine on Monday, anticipation is palpable. Each year, the Nobel Prizes honor those individuals and organizations that contribute significantly to the betterment of humanity, a mission set forth by the creator of the prizes, Alfred Nobel. This year's awards come at a time when the globe faces significant challenges, including ongoing wars in the Middle East and Ukraine, as well as a deteriorating climate crisis.
Leading the charge is the Nobel Prize in Medicine, with notable candidates including American biologist Kevan Shokat. He has made groundbreaking strides by uncovering ways to block the KRAS cancer gene, which is implicated in about one-third of all cancers, including recessive and hard-to-treat lung, colon, and pancreatic tumors. His work is currently in the testing phase to develop new treatment strategies.
Other potential laureates include geneticists Jonathan Cohen and Helen Hobbs, recognized for their research on genes that affect the metabolism of lipids, such as cholesterol, paving the way for new cholesterol-lowering medications. David Pendlebury of Clarivate Analytics noted that Hobbs previously received the Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences, co-sharing the accolade with Swedish geneticist Svante Pääbo, who went on to win the Nobel in 2022.
A trio of neuroscientists—Ann Graybiel from the US, Okihide Hikosaka from Japan, and Wolfram Schultz, initially from Germany—are also in contention for their groundbreaking studies on the basal ganglia, a key brain region linked to motivation and reward behaviors.
Epigenetics advocates Davor Solter and Azim Surani are recognized for their research exploring how gene activity is controlled at the cellular level, without altering the DNA itself. Last year's Medicine Prize was awarded for innovations in messenger RNA technology, which led to the rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines.
Turning to the Nobel Prize in Physics, experts suggest Swiss physicist Christoph Gerber might clinch the award for his revolutionary work on the atomic force microscope, which provides unprecedented 3D imaging at an atomic scale, integral to advancements in nanotechnology. Clarivate also highlights David Deutsch and Peter Shor for their contributions to quantum computing and algorithm development.
For the Chemistry award, expectations are high for Omar Yaghi, noted for his innovative creation of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs). These customizable porous materials have transformative uses, ranging from toxin absorption to water condensation from desert air. Additionally, Karl Deisseroth, an eminent psychiatrist and neurologist, is recognized for pioneering optogenetics, a technology that utilizes light to manipulate cell functions.
As the week unfolds, speculation heightens surrounding the Literature prize. Some experts believe the influential Chinese writer Can Xue may be favored, given her unique style that straddles the line between the surreal and the mundane. Others suggest contenders like Australian novelist Gerald Murnane, British author Salman Rushdie, or Kenyan writer Ngugi wa Thiong'o as strong possibilities.
Finally, the climax of the week arrives with the announcement of the Nobel Peace Prize on Friday. The candidates this year are particularly difficult to predict, as numerous global crises have emerged. Possibilities range from the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) to Afghan women's rights activist Mahbouba Seraj, and even the International Court of Justice. The Campaign to Stop Killer Robots has also garnered attention due to concerns surrounding autonomous weapon systems and their implications for humanity.
Rounding off the Nobel season, the Economics Prize will be awarded on October 14. Leading discussions include research on child development economics, the role of nature in economic models, and the impact of corruption on growth trajectories. As the week progresses, the Nobel Prizes remain a beacon of hope and recognition for those striving to improve lives amid a tumultuous global landscape.
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