#Sweden #Gothenburg #Assar Gabrielsson #Marcus Borenäs #Elizabeth Schepke

2025 Assar Gabrielsson Prize Ceremony in Gothenburg

On May 15, 2025, the Assar Gabrielsson Foundation celebrated the exemplary achievements in cancer research with the announcement of this year's prize recipients at a ceremony held in Gothenburg, Sweden. The foundation awarded Marcus Borenäs the prestigious prize in the category of basic science research and Elizabeth Schepke in the category of clinical research, each receiving SEK 100,000 as an additional research grant.

Contributions to Cancer Research

Marcus Borenäs was recognized for his groundbreaking research on malignant neuroblastomas, a type of cancer primarily affecting children that develops in the sympathetic nervous system. His intricate studies focus on the mechanisms of ALK signaling pathways in various neuroblastoma types. Professor Eva Forssell-Aronsson, a key figure within the Assar Gabrielsson Foundation and the University of Gothenburg, commented on Borenäs's work, noting that it could significantly enhance treatment protocols for pediatric patients diagnosed with this challenging type of cancer.

In the realm of clinical research, Elizabeth Schepke was honored for her important investigations into DNA methylation patterns in pediatric brain tumors. Her research sheds light on the classification of these tumors that can lead to improved treatment choices. According to Professor Forssell-Aronsson, Schepke's findings are crucial for clinicians aiming to tailor therapies more effectively to individual patient needs, enhancing the prospects of successful treatment outcomes.

Legacy of Assar Gabrielsson

Assar Gabrielsson, who was instrumental in the foundation of Volvo, envisioned the establishment of a fund aimed at supporting promising clinical cancer research. Since its inception in 1962, this fund has facilitated numerous research initiatives that aspire to bridge gaps in funding from larger research organizations. The recognition of Borenäs and Schepke aligns perfectly with the foundation's mission to foster innovative research that can lead to significant advancements in understanding and treating cancer.

The awards not only honor the laureates for their hard work and dedication but also emphasize the importance of continued research funding in areas that may not yet have gained traction, illustrating the foundation's commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientists and groundbreaking discoveries.

Looking Ahead

Both awardees expressed their gratitude, acknowledging the support of the Assar Gabrielsson Foundation as critical in their respective research paths. Their work exemplifies the type of transformative research that can arise from dedicated focus and innovation in the field of oncology.

As the field of cancer research continues to evolve, the Assar Gabrielsson Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to support pioneering research efforts that may one day lead to life-saving treatments for those affected by cancer. Further information about the foundation and its activities can be found at the Volvo Group’s official website, which tracks advancements in transport and infrastructure solutions alongside its commitment to social responsibility and research development.

The foundation's dedication highlights the pressing need for ongoing support in the many realms of clinical and basic science. As newer generations of researchers emerge, the hope is that initiatives like the Assar Gabrielsson Prize will inspire future breakthroughs that may push forward the boundaries of medical science.

In celebration of the winners' achievements, a series of workshops and seminars are planned to disseminate their research findings to the broader scientific community and engage in discussions about future directions in cancer research. This collaborative approach aims to foster exchange and innovative thinking that could lead to advancements in treatment and patient care.