Scientists win Ig Nobel for discovering anal breathing in mammals

On Thursday, a collaborative research team consisting of Japanese and American scientists was honored with the prestigious Ig Nobel Prize in physiology. This accolade was awarded for their groundbreaking discovery that mammals have the remarkable ability to breathe through their anuses. The research, which was initially published in the journal *Med* in 2021, has sparked considerable interest due to its potential applications in treating respiratory conditions, including COVID-19.

The study, conducted by an international team of eleven researchers, demonstrates that this unusual respiratory method could offer new avenues for medical treatment, especially for individuals suffering from severe respiratory illnesses. The Ig Nobel Prizes, known for celebrating unconventional and humorous scientific achievements, have been awarded annually by the U.S. scientific magazine *Annals of Improbable Research* at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

This year’s award marks the 18th consecutive year that Japanese nationals have been recognized with this unique prize, highlighting the country’s ongoing contributions to innovative and imaginative scientific research.

In a light-hearted and appreciative acceptance speech, Takanori Takebe, a professor at Tokyo Medical and Dental University and one of the researchers behind the study, expressed gratitude for the recognition. Speaking in English, Takebe conveyed his appreciation with a touch of humor: “First and foremost, thank you for believing in the potential of the anus.” This statement underscores the team's acknowledgment of the unconventional nature of their discovery while emphasizing its significant scientific implications.