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 provided a solution to a long-standing chemical mystery regarding the spontaneous emergence of homochirality. This achievement was praised by Heiner Linke, the chair of the Nobel Committee for Chemistry, who described their chemical reactions as remarkable.
Kagan, aged 95 and hailing from France, is associated with Université Paris-Saclay in Orsay, while Soai, born in Japan in 1950, conducts research at the Tokyo University of Science. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences made the announcement in Stockholm, revealing that the recipients will share a prize sum of 12 million Swedish crowns (approximately $1.7 million Cdn).
Their discoveries have had a significant impact on the field of pharmaceutical manufacturing, as stated by Linke. Many crucial life molecules exist in two forms that are mirror images of each other, a concept known as “homochirality,” which has intrigued chemists for over a century. Kagan and Soai succeeded in guiding chemical reactions to selectively produce the desired mirror-image, a crucial aspect for pharmaceutical design.
Expressing his elation, Soai conveyed his excitement at receiving the news, considering it one of the most thrilling moments in his life. He recounted being informed by the Nobel committee while out shopping near his residence. The Nobel Prize in Literature is scheduled to be announced on Thursday, followed by the peace prize on Friday, and the economics prize on October 12.
The Nobel laureates will be presented with their awards on December 10, the anniversary of Alfred Nobel’s passing. In his will, the Swedish chemist and entrepreneur stipulated that his estate should be utilized to establish prizes rewarding individuals who have made significant contributions benefiting humanity.