Three scientists win medicine Nobel for developing optogenetics

Karl Deisseroth, Peter Hegemann and Georg Nagel have jointly won the 2026 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for discoveries concerning light-gated ion channels and optogenetics, the Karolinska Institutet announced, according to STAT. The Nobel Committee said their work has helped researchers study how neural circuits relate to memories, feelings and behavior.

Optogenetics uses light and a protein from algae to control electrical activity in cells. STAT reported that researchers can use it to switch individual nerve cells on or off in a living brain. The BBC reported that researchers are testing the approach to restore sight in people blinded by retinitis pigmentosa. In ongoing clinical trials, a protein is inserted into the damaged area of the eye, and special glasses emitting light activate it. The BBC reported that a patient regained some vision using this approach.