Henri B. Kagan and Kenso Soai were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their groundbreaking work on non-linear effects and autocatalysis in asymmetric organic synthesis. The discovery by Kagan and Soai has solved a long-standing chemical mystery dating back over a century regarding the spontaneous emergence of homochirality, as stated by Heiner Linke, chair of the Nobel Committee for Chemistry. Linke praised their developed chemical reactions as remarkable and emphasized the significant impact their findings have had on pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.
Kagan, 95, hailing from France, is associated with Université Paris-Saclay in Orsay, while Soai, born in Japan in 1950, conducts his research at the Tokyo University of Science. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences in Stockholm announced the laureates, who will collectively receive a prize of 12 million Swedish crowns ($1.7 million Cdn).
The molecules crucial for life exist in two forms that are mirror images of each other, yet living organisms predominantly utilize only one form, a phenomenon known as “homochirality.” Kagan and Soai have devised methods to influence chemical reactions to favor the desired mirror-image, a breakthrough crucial for pharmaceutical design.
Expressing his excitement, Soai shared that receiving the news was one of the most thrilling moments of his life. He recounted being informed by the Nobel committee while out shopping near his residence.
The Nobel Prize in Literature will be unveiled on Thursday, followed by the peace prize on Friday, and the economics prize on Oct. 12. The Nobel laureates will be honored on Dec. 10, the date of Alfred Nobel’s passing, in accordance with his will directing the allocation of his estate for recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to humanity.
