Genomic imprinting: Two researchers are revolutionizing genetics!

Genomic imprinting: Two researchers are revolutionizing genetics!

On September 16, 2025, it was announced that Davor Solter and Azim Surani would be awarded the 2026 Paul Ehrlich and Ludwig Darmstaedter Prize. This was announced by the board of trustees of the Paul Ehrlich Foundation. The two scientists are being honored for their groundbreaking discoveries on genomic imprinting, which have revolutionized the understanding of genetics.

Genomic imprinting, a phenomenon in which the genetic information of eggs and sperm is processed differently, challenges classical theories of genetics. Solter and Surani found that certain genes are marked in such a way that they can only be read from one of the two parents. This has enormous implications not only for basic research but also for modern epigenetics.

Scientific breakthrough

As part of their research, the award winners discovered that in mammals the parents only pass on certain genes in active form. Their studies on virgin conception showed that embryos with two paternal or two maternal pronuclei are not viable. In contrast, embryos with a male and a female pronucleus developed into healthy mice. These findings were supported by germ cell nucleus transplantation techniques.

The term “genomic imprinting” was coined by Surani, and his studies led to the identification of the first imprinted genes in 1991, including IGF2R and IGF2. These discoveries indicated that material and paternal chromosomes contribute different information and functions in the developmental processes.

The role of the IGF2 gene

The IGF2 gene, located at chromosomal locus 11p15.5, plays a central role in mammalian embryonic growth. It is controlled by several promoters that are active in different phases of development. The product of this gene is IGF-II, a growth-promoting ligand that has autocrine and paracrine effects that may also be associated with tumorigenesis.

Research shows that the expressional regulation of the IGF2 gene is crucial for processes such as feto-placental growth. The deviations in expressional regulation can lead to serious illnesses, including Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome and Angelmann syndrome. In these diseases, genetic defects that lead to relaxation of imprinting can be caused by microdeletion or point mutations in the imprinting center region.

It is noteworthy that IGF-II dysregulation is also associated with neurodegenerative diseases, highlighting the importance of these genes in understanding developmental and disease processes. The IGF2 gene is increasingly being considered as a potential target for innovative cancer therapies.

The award ceremony for Davor Solter and Azim Surani will take place on March 14, 2026 in the Paulskirche in Frankfurt. The prize is endowed with 120,000 euros and has been awarded since 1952 to honor outstanding achievements in medical research. During their long careers, both Solter and Surani have contributed significantly to the elucidation of epigenetic mechanisms and have had a decisive influence on the field of experimental epigenetics. Their discoveries not only revolutionized the understanding of genetics, but also opened up new avenues in medical research.

Overall, the award recognizes the significant achievements of these two researchers and their contribution to the scientific community.