Lundbeck Foundation Honors Pioneers in Sensory Neuroscience

The Lundbeck Foundation has awarded The Brain Prize 2026 to Professors David Ginty and Patrik Ernfors for their pioneering research on how the nervous system detects and processes touch and pain. Their discoveries have redefined understanding in the field and paved the way for new treatments targeting chronic pain and hypersensitivity to touch.

David Ginty from Harvard Medical School and Patrik Ernfors of Sweden's Karolinska Institutet have identified mechanisms by which nerve cells in the skin convert stimuli into neural signals. Their work has mapped the transmission of these signals to the brain, influencing perceptions and reactions to physical stimuli.

Their research has significantly advanced the understanding of somatosensation, laying a foundation for innovative interventions. The findings have potential applications in developing targeted therapies for sensory dysfunctions such as chronic pain.