Congratulations to Professor Shimon Sakaguchi on the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine
We are deeply honored and delighted to receive the truly prestigious news that Professor Shimon Sakaguchi of IFReC has been awarded the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. Professor Sakaguchi, please accept our heartfelt congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.
Since 1979, when he first became convinced of the existence of T cells that regulate the immune system, Professor Sakaguchi has made a series of groundbreaking discoveries that have fundamentally transformed the field of immunology. In 1995, he identified regulatory T cells (Tregs) characterized by CD25, and in 2003, he elucidated Foxp3, the transcription factor that governs their differentiation. He has also devoted great effort to elucidating the molecular mechanisms by which regulatory T cells control the activity of inflammatory T cells. These achievements have had a profound impact on the global scientific community.
It is particularly noteworthy that, even in the early stages of his research when the existence of regulatory T cells was not fully recognized by his peers, Professor Sakaguchi remained steadfast in his conviction and continued his work without compromise. His remarkable accomplishments are a testament to his extraordinary insight and unwavering belief in his work.
In addition to his outstanding scientific contributions, Professor Sakaguchi is known for his gentle demeanor and invaluable contributions to the management and development of IFReC. He has also been deeply committed to nurturing young researchers, serving as a role model and source of inspiration for many in the scientific community. We would like to take this opportunity to express our deepest gratitude for his efforts.
Looking ahead, we sincerely hope that his pioneering discoveries on regulatory T cells will continue to pave the way for the development of innovative therapeutic drugs aimed at overcoming autoimmune diseases and cancer.
Once again, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Professor Sakaguchi on this prestigious award.

Kiyoshi Takeda, Director
Immunology Frontier Research Center

Website of The University of Osaka

Website of Nobel Prize