In Los Angeles, French-Canadian scientist Michel Sadelain was recognized with the Breakthrough Prize for his groundbreaking research on genetically modifying immune cells to combat cancer. The ceremony, attended by tech giants such as Elon Musk and Bill Gates, as well as celebrities including Jessica Chastain, Robert Downey Jr., and Bradley Cooper, celebrated Sadelain’s work in developing CAR-T therapy, which has shown significant success in treating certain blood cancers.
Sadelain spoke on the red carpet at the Oscars Museum about his gratitude for the prestigious award and how many of his scientific colleagues initially doubted the potential effectiveness of his research. He explained that this breakthrough was a result of years of hard work and dedication to unraveling the mysteries of immunotherapy. The Breakthrough Prize, established in 2010, celebrates exceptional achievements in fields like life sciences, fundamental physics, and mathematics and positions itself as a modern equivalent to the Nobel Prize.
Sadelain will share the $3 million prize with American immunologist Carl June for their innovative approach to genetic engineering that utilizes a modified virus to reprogram human T-cells with antigen receptors that enable them to specifically target cancer cells. Their method has paved the way for advanced cancer treatments and serves as a testament to the power of cutting-edge scientific research in addressing complex medical challenges.
