“Acceptance Speech” Frontiers of Knowledge Award 2021 in Biology and Biomedicine

Acceptance speech by David Julius, winner of the 2021 Frontiers of Knowledge Award in Biology and Biomedicine, who was honored alongside Ardem Patapoutian for identifying the molecular receptors that enable us to sense temperature, pain and pressure. His research has revealed how specific proteins in nerve cells detect thermal and chemical stimuli, opening new avenues for understanding pain mechanisms and developing treatments for chronic pain.

Julius explains how his interest in natural substances led him to investigate the burning sensation of chili peppers and the cooling effect of mint, discovering the TRPV1 and TRPM8 ion channels, which detect heat and cold, respectively. He reflects on pain as a protective mechanism that can become debilitating when it persists and highlights the potential of these findings for developing new analgesics. He also acknowledges the importance of scientific collaboration, training young researchers and public funding for basic research.