James Allison, Ph.D.

2018 Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology
2017 Wolf Prize
2014 Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences
Regental Professor and Chair, MD Anderson Cancer Center

James Allison, Ph.D., is a professor of immunology at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Dr. Allison received the Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology for his discovery of a breakthrough therapy in the fight against cancer. By stimulating the inherent ability of our immune system to attack tumor cells Dr. Allison established an entirely new principle for cancer therapy. In 1994–1995, Dr. Allison studied a known protein that functions as a brake on the immune system. He realized the potential of releasing the brake and thereby unleashing our immune cells to attack tumors. He then developed this concept into a new approach for treating patients. His discoveries have led to new treatments for even the deadliest of cancers.