Stockholm:Henri B. Kagan of France and Kenso Soai of Japan have been jointly awarded the 2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their groundbreaking work on non-linear effects and autocatalysis in asymmetric organic synthesis, solving a mystery that has puzzled scientists for over a century.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences announced the laureates in Stockholm, recognizing their contributions to understanding homochirality—a chemical phenomenon where molecules exist in mirror-image forms, yet only one form is prevalent in living organisms.
Kagan and Soai's research has been pivotal in explaining how such chemical asymmetry naturally occurs. Kagan made significant strides in 1986 by developing methods to manipulate chemical reactions, achieving a greater excess of one mirror image. Soai further advanced this field with a successful homochiral reaction in 2003, a first outside of natural biological processes.
The Nobel Committee praised their work as transformative, particularly for pharmaceutical chemistry, as it enables the development of more effective drugs. This year, Kagan and Soai will share the prize money, alongside receiving a certificate and medal.
Henri Kagan is celebrated for his pioneering role in asymmetric catalysis. Born in 1930, he has a distinguished academic background from Sorbonne University and the École nationale supérieure de chimie de Paris and has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his career.
Kenso Soai, born in 1950, is renowned for his contributions to organic chemistry, particularly the "Soai Reaction." His achievements have earned him high honors in Japan, reflecting his significant impact on the field.
The Nobel Prize in Chemistry has a long history, awarded 118 times since 1901. The 2026 award marks another significant milestone in its legacy, with Kagan and Soai joining the ranks of distinguished scientists recognized for their exceptional contributions to science. The official Nobel Prize ceremony will take place in Stockholm on December 10, commemorating Alfred Nobel's death anniversary.