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Science News for December 26, 2023


Off-label use of a common antibiotic to treat muscular dystrophy

Researchers from Osaka University have identified erythromycin as a potential treatment for myotonic dystrophy type 1, a genetic disease characterized by progressive muscular weakness. The antibiotic showed acceptable safety and tolerability profiles in a phase 2 clinical trial, with some patients experiencing significant improvements ...

SourceOsaka University·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 26, 2023

Common heart medication digoxin shows promise in enhancing survival after surgery for infants with certain heart defects

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that digoxin treatment significantly reduced mortality and the need for a transplant among infants undergoing a hybrid procedure for single-ventricle physiology. The researchers analyzed data from 259 infants who received digoxin during their interstage per...

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 26, 2023

A protective antibody targeting a conserved site of fusion glycoprotein of respiratory syncytial virus

A new antibody targeting a highly conserved epitope on RSV's fusion glycoprotein demonstrates promising results, outperforming existing Palivizumab in neutralization and protective efficacy. The study also explores synergistic effects with other inhibitors, expanding the understanding of RSV's neutralizing and protective epitopes.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalhLife·DateDec 26, 2023

Mass General Brigham study finds daily learning test can detect Alzheimer’s disease-related changes in memory among cognitively normal older adults

A study by Mass General Brigham found that daily learning tests can detect Alzheimer's disease-related changes in memory among cognitively normal older adults. The test, called BRANCH, was completed over seven days on a smartphone, revealing diminished learning curves associated with elevated amyloid levels.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAnnals of Neurology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 26, 2023

Safety of aquatic animals as human protein sources amid SARS-CoV-2 concerns

Researchers developed a pipeline to evaluate the risk of infections by aquatic animals. The study found no evidence of human-associated viruses in aquatic animal transcriptomes, confirming their safety as protein sources. However, proper handling and storage are crucial to controlling SARS-CoV-2 spread through cold-chain food.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalReproduction and Breeding·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 26, 2023