Three scientists have jointly won the 2026 Nobel Prize in Medicine in recognition of their development of “optogenetics”—a revolutionary technology that uses light to activate and control nerve cells (neurons) in the living brain. The laureates are Karl Deisseroth of Stanford University (USA), Peter Hegemann of Humboldt University (Germany), and Georg Nagel of the University of Würzburg (Germany). The Nobel Assembly at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden, announced their names on Monday. News agencies Reuters and AFP reported the development.
The Nobel Committee stated that these three scientists demonstrated a technique to stimulate and control specific nerve cells in mammals using light, utilizing a special light-sensitive protein (channelrhodopsin) derived from algae. The “optogenetics” method they discovered has brought about a historic shift in neuroscience and the analysis of brain function. Their fundamental research has played a groundbreaking role in paving the way for new treatments for complex human brain disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, depression, and blindness.
Scientists Peter Hegemann and Georg Nagel discovered light-detecting proteins within single-celled algae. Subsequently, Karl Deisseroth advanced this research by successfully controlling specific neurons in the living brains of mice using light delivered via optical fibers. For this groundbreaking achievement, the three scientists will share the monetary prize equally alongside the Nobel medals. As is customary, the medals will be formally presented to them on December 10, the anniversary of Alfred Nobel’s death.
