GLP-1 based drugs are transforming the treatment of obesity and opening up new avenues for addressing heart disease, addiction, and even Alzheimer’s. Now, three scientists who played key roles in their invention have won a prestigious Lasker Award for biomedical research.

One of the researchers described the circumstances that led to the discovery as “serendipity.” This year’s prestigious Lasker medical awards recognize a trio of scientists without whom Ozempic and other blockbuster weight-loss drugs might not exist.

Three scientists are honored for developing a class of blockbuster weight-loss drugs. Is a Nobel prize on the way?

Three scientists were recognized by the Lasker Awards for their work on the GLP-1 hormone. Others were honored for work to stop H.I.V. and for immune system discoveries.