As part of a moving celebration, Dr. Arcangela Iuso (Helmholtz Munich) and Dr. Lucia Laugwitz (UK Tübingen) were honored: two scientists whose work exemplifies the great strength and impressive range of research into rare diseases.
Awarded: RNA Base Editing and Newborn Screening as Beacons of Hope
Dr. Arcangela Iuso received the research award for her innovative approach to RNA base editing. Her project demonstrates how genetic errors can be specifically corrected at the RNA level—a promising step toward personalized therapies. In her tribute, Prof. Dr. Annette Grüters-Kieslich, chairwoman of the foundation, praised the work: “Your work is inspiring and of great importance. Brava, Arcangela!”
The Special Recognition Award went to Dr. Lucia Laugwitz, Prof. Dr. Samuel Gröschel, and the European Leukodystrophy Association (ELA). Their pioneering work in newborn screening for metachromatic leukodystrophy helps ensure affected children can be diagnosed and treated early. It highlights how essential it is to integrate research, diagnostics, and care to quickly deliver real help to children and families affected.
20 Years of Commitment: Research and Networking that Makes an Impact
In a talk round charmingly led by moderator Heinz Wilkens with the awardees, it became clear: both projects represent what has driven the Eva Luise and Horst Köhler Foundation for 20 years—research that goes beyond knowledge to create tangible change for those affected.
In her greeting, Eva Luise Köhler highlighted the remarkable progress over the past years and the ongoing potential in rare disease research. New networks, growing scientific knowledge, and steadily more concrete therapy approaches show that progress is within reach when many work together. She also emphasized: “We have achieved a lot, but much still lies ahead of us.”
The personal words of Dr. Ulrike Köhler, who has long been engaged on the foundation board, were especially moving. She spoke poignantly about living with a rare disease and how critical visibility, solidarity, and commitment are.
Political greetings also sent a clear and remarkable message. Having two federal ministers—Nina Warken and Dorothee Bär—address the guests is a significant sign. In their messages, they made it clear: the concerns of people with rare diseases are being heard at the national political level as well.
When Science and Music Resonate Together
The evening ended on a special note: Schumann’s cello concerto, performed by the German Pediatricians’ Orchestra and Jan Vogler, formed a powerful highlight. Doctors and a world-class soloist on stage together gave the performance a unique quality: an interplay of commitment and excellence that inspired—and will resonate for a long time to come.
This evening was more than an award ceremony. It showed the strength that emerges when people join in shared responsibility. We are grateful for wonderful encounters, each one encouraging and obligating us in equal measure to continue working so that research becomes real progress.
Impressions from the Award Ceremony
Photos: Andrea Katheder
