Post by Boston Children's Hospital

Stuart Orkin has been awarded the #BreakthroughPrize in Life Sciences for his pioneering work discovering the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying the switch from fetal to adult hemoglobin, a finding that led to a new treatment strategy for sickle cell disease. Dr. Orkin shares the prize with Swee Lay Thein. The Breakthrough Prize, popularly known as the “Oscars® of Science,” recognizes major advances in the life sciences, fundamental physics, and mathematics. This year’s laureates were recognized Saturday at the Breakthrough Prize gala in Los Angeles, where leaders from science, technology, and business joined actors, filmmakers, writers, musicians, athletes, and past laureates to celebrate scientific discovery and achievement. This year, six Breakthrough Prizes of $3 million each were awarded. Actress Octavia Spencer presented the Life Sciences award to Drs. Orkin and Thein. “Receiving the Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences alongside Dr. Thein is a singular honor that affirms the critical role of basic research in developing transformative therapies for devastating diseases,” said Orkin. “I hope that recognition of our contributions stimulate investment and further research that will bring additional treatments to all patients with sickle cell disease and beta thalassemia, wherever in the world they reside.” Congratulations to Dr. Orkin! 👏 Learn more: http://ms.spr.ly/6047v8lrH