2012 Nobel Prize in Chemistry
Brian Kobilka received today the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, an award he shared with Robert Lefkowitz. They won for their work on G-protein coupled receptors, which are sensors that sit on the surface of cells that allow cells to sense light, flavour, odour and receive signals from hormones and neurotransmitters. Their research has already allowed drug makers to develop medication with fewer side effects. Kobilka’s work, in particular, determined the complicated molecular structure of the receptors.
The 2012 Nobel Prize Laureate for Chemistry Professor Brian K. Kobilka, left, of US, receives his Nobel Prize from Sweden’s King Carl XVI Gustaf during the Nobel Prize award ceremony at the Stockholm Concert Hall in Stockholm, Sweden on Monday Dec. 10, 2012. Photo: Scanpix Sweden/Henrik Montgomery, Pool / AP