A joint press conference was held on October 6 at The University of Osaka for Professor Shimon Sakaguchi’s receipt of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his discovery of “regulatory T cells (Treg)” that suppress immune overreaction. He delivered his message as below:

“I am deeply honored to receive this prestigious Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the selection committee members who recognized my research, as well as to the many colleagues, students, and co-researchers who have collaborated with me in this research.

The Tregs we discovered are crucial cells that suppress immune responses, preventing excessive inflammation and autoimmune reactions. It was made possible thanks to the passion and collaboration of numerous researchers, as well as the understanding of society that supports the importance of basic research, that we were able to elucidate the existence and function of these cells over the course of many years.

This research demonstrated that the immune system operates on a delicate balance between the two forces of "attack" and "suppression," unraveling the mechanism of "tolerance" inherent in the human body. I sincerely hope that these findings will lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases, allergies, cancer, and many other conditions.

I am truly grateful to my colleagues, staff, and students at The University of Osaka and Kyoto University who have supported me to date, as well as to everyone who has provided me with opportunities and environment to conduct this research. Research cannot be done alone. The presence of colleagues who have worked, struggled, and exulted with me has brought us to this achievement.

I intend to continue to do my utmost to create an environment where young researchers can freely pursue basic research with innovative ideas. I also hope to pass on the joy of exploring the mysteries of life to the next generation.“

Professor Atsushi Kumanogoh, the President of The University of Osaka extended heartfelt congratulations to Professor Sakaguchi and mentioned, “Professor Sakaguchi's research, recognized by this award, was the first in the world to demonstrate the presence of Treg cells and immunological importance. Since then, research in this field has advanced dramatically not only at The University of Osaka but also globally, leading to applications in medicine and beyond. This is truly a remarkable achievement.
This award is the fruit of Professor Sakaguchi's many years of tenacious, assiduous devotion to basic research. We are confident that this will be great encouragement to young researchers and students facing various challenges while devoting themselves to their research every day.“


Professor Sakaguchi’s full statement can be found at: https://www.osaka-u.ac.jp/en/news/topics/2025/10/kstg4k

Professor Shimon Sakaguchi’s personal history
https://www.osaka-u.ac.jp/en/research/nobelprize/sakaguchi/top

Professor Shimon Sakaguchi’s lab.
https://www.ifrec.osaka-u.ac.jp/en/laboratory/shimon_sakaguchi/index.htm


About The University of Osaka
The University of Osaka was founded in 1931 as one of the seven imperial universities of Japan and is now one of Japan's leading comprehensive universities with a broad disciplinary spectrum. This strength is coupled with a singular drive for innovation that extends throughout the scientific process, from fundamental research to the creation of applied technology with positive economic impacts. Its commitment to innovation has been recognized in Japan and around the world. Now, The University of Osaka is leveraging its role as a Designated National University Corporation selected by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology to contribute to innovation for human welfare, sustainable development of society, and social transformation.
Website: https://resou.osaka-u.ac.jp/en


About Immunology Frontier Research Center (IFReC), The University of Osaka
IFReC was established by the support of the World Premier International Research Center Initiative (WPI) in 2007. IFReC aims to overcome immune-related diseases by clarifying the whole picture of the immune system, and has promoted globally competitive fundamental research with excellent researchers from overseas.
Website: https://www.ifrec.osaka-u.ac.jp/en/