By Rebecca Robbins

In just the last few years, new medications have turned hepatitis C into a widely and quickly curable disease — for those who can afford it.

But the lesser-known origins of the story trace back to a 1990s laboratory invention that made it all possible. Now, two virologists who pioneered that pivotal development, and a drug researcher who created the first revolutionary drug, are being honored with one of the most prestigious awards in medical science.