US psychiatrist and neurologist Karl Deisseroth, alongside German scientists Peter Hegemann and Georg Nagel, have been awarded the 2026 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for pioneering work in optogenetics.
The Nobel Committee hailed their discovery as the foundation of a “new era in neuroscience”, enabling researchers to switch neural circuits on and off to study “specific memories, feelings, and behaviours relevant for neurological and psychiatric disorders”.
“Optogenetics has fundamentally altered our understanding of the brain,” the Nobel Assembly said. “Every day brings new discoveries, helping to solve one of humanity’s great mysteries: how our incredible brain works.”
The trio described the honour as “absolutely wonderful”, adding that it was a privilege to share the accolade with close colleagues. They will split the £900,000 (12 million Swedish kronor) prize money.
What is Optogenetics?
Optogenetics uses light to control brain activity. The technique relies on a special protein from algae, known as channelrhodopsin, discovered by Hegemann and Nagel in the early 2000s.
Deisseroth later demonstrated how this protein could be harnessed to activate nerve cells in mice, opening the door to mapping brain pathways with unprecedented precision.
“Optogenetics provides opportunities for mapping the brain in a way that we could once only dream of,” explained Per Svenningsson, chair of the Nobel Committee.
By illuminating neural circuits, scientists can now trigger memories, evoke emotions, and study behaviours, offering vital insights into psychiatric and neurological disorders.
Towards Medical Applications
Beyond research, optogenetics is showing promise in clinical medicine. Trials are underway to restore vision in patients with retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease.
By inserting algae proteins into damaged retinal cells and using special light-emitting glasses, patients have regained partial sight. The Nobel Committee described this as “the first steps” towards therapeutic use, with potential to transform treatment for visual impairment and other neurological conditions.