Nobel Prize 2026 in Chemistry: Henri B. Kagan, Kenso Soai help solve mystery of molecular asymmetry

The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences awarded the 2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry to Henri B. Kagan and Kenso Soai. Their work focuses on non-linear effects and autocatalysis in asymmetric organic synthesis, explaining the origin of homochirality in living organisms. Kagan's methods enhance the production of specific molecular forms significant for pharmaceuticals and materials. Soai's reactions have sparked renewed interest in creating homochiral amino acids and sugars.