Osaka University’s Shimon Sakaguchi has been awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his discovery of regulatory T cells, which suppress excessive immune responses. These cells also appear in the manga Cells at Work!, created by Akane Shimizu. Following the announcement, the series’ official X (formerly Twitter) account shared a congratulatory illustration from Shimizu herself.

According to the anime’s official website, regulatory T cells “suppress the runaway activity of T cells and prevent immune disorders.” Reflecting that explanation, the illustration portrays the Regulatory T Cell character bravely fighting to maintain balance within the body. The official website posted, “We received a congratulatory illustration from Akane Shimizu, the creator of Cells at Work!, celebrating Dr. Shimon Sakaguchi’s Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. Congratulations, Dr. Sakaguchi!”

Shimizu also expressed her joy on her personal X account, writing, “Dr. Shimon Sakaguchi, congratulations on receiving the Nobel Prize! I’m so happy that many people remembered the Regulatory T Cell from Cells at Work!.”

Voice actress Saori Hayami, who played the Regulatory T Cell in the anime adaptation, also updated her X account to offer congratulations, saying, “Congratulations on your award! I had the honor of portraying the Regulatory T Cell in Cells at Work!. This gives me a wonderful opportunity to learn more about these fascinating cells.”

Source : ORICON NEWS