Research on treating disease with medication. Covers psychedelics, combination cancer therapy, opioid treatment in pregnancy, and personalized guidelines.
The ESMO Targeted Anticancer Therapies Congress 2023 features presentations on drug discovery and development for various targets, precision medicine, and early clinical trial methodology. Keynote lectures highlight novel insights in mutational signatures and epigenetic therapies.
Researchers have created twin-bioengine yeast micro/nanorobots that can autonomously navigate to inflamed sites in the gut, providing precise delivery of therapeutics via enzyme-macrophage switching. The robots effectively penetrate intestinal mucus barriers and increase drug accumulation at diseased sites.
A new analysis of COVID-19 patient data reveals that remdesivir significantly lowers mortality in unvaccinated patients with conventional oxygen support. The study found no evidence of varying treatment effects based on age, comorbidities, or inflammation levels.
Researchers from Tokyo Medical and Dental University investigated the safety of anti-VEGF drug Aflibercept in a cell culture model exposed to HTLV-1. The study found that treatment did not increase pro-viral load or proliferation of RPE cells, suggesting potential for intraocular use.
Researchers found that fasudil reversed reduced pyramidal neuron density and cognitive dysfunction associated with methamphetamine treatment in mice with ARHGAP10 gene mutations. Fasudil also restored the density of pyramidal neurons, improving visual discrimination tests performance.
Scientists have successfully corrected limb length in a mouse model of FZD2-associated autosomal dominant Robinow Syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects skeletal growth and development. The treatment involves using a drug that stimulates the signalling pathway, resulting in significantly longer limbs than untreated mice.
A recent study published in Radiology found that thrombectomy is a safe and feasible treatment option for patients with primary isolated anterior cerebral artery medium vessel occlusions. The procedure showed similar outcomes to medical treatment in terms of early and long-term functional outcomes, mortality rates, and safety.
Studies elucidate key aspects of traditional Chinese compounds and modern cancer therapeutics, highlighting the efficacy of R. serra in treating colitis and identifying active components of Gan Cao in treating pneumonia. A new radiolabeled antibody-based probe for detecting PD-L1 expression in cancers also provides a novel approach to ...
Researchers at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center have identified CD70 as a novel therapeutic target for eliminating drug-resistant cancer cells in EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer. CD70 targeting strategies showed significant anti-tumor activity, eliminating resistant cells in laboratory models.
The ESMO Gynaecological Cancers Congress 2023 will present the latest treatments and insights for ovarian, uterine, cervical, and rare gynaecological cancers. Around 80 studies will be presented on strategies to overcome PARP inhibitors mechanisms of resistance in ovarian cancer.
Scientists have discovered that wrinkles in the cellular nucleus may be involved in common metabolic diseases such as diabetes and fatty liver disease. The new findings suggest that targeting these wrinkles could lead to novel treatments for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which affects 40% of people over age 70.
Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf developed a new strategy to increase target molecules for radionuclide therapy in pheochromocytoma tumors, delaying tumor growth. The combination of valproic acid and decitabine prior to therapy doubled the radiation dose absorbed by the tumor.
Researchers found associations between cancer treatments and accumulated mutations in blood cells, a sign of accelerated aging called clonal hematopoiesis. This accumulation increases the risk of blood cancer and death in long-term childhood cancer survivors.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement outlines ideal foundational requirements for stroke program development and growth. The guidelines aim to minimize inconsistencies and improve services provided by certified stroke centers across the U.S., emphasizing leadership, personnel resources, and quality improvement.
A study by University of Gothenburg researchers found a significant association between methotrexate use and an increased risk of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and cutaneous malignant melanoma. The study suggests that higher doses of methotrexate may increase the risk of SCC and BCC, while no dose-response relationship...
The work group reframed what is clinically meaningful to slow Alzheimer's disease progression, including the need for combination therapies and realistic expectations of benefits and risks. Slowing brain deterioration by four to six months in early stages may preserve function, leading to meaningful outcomes for patients and families.
An updated Cochrane review found no effect of vitamin D supplements on reducing the risk of asthma attacks or improving control of asthma symptoms in children and adults. The review analyzed data from 20 randomized controlled trials involving over 2,200 people with mild to moderate asthma.
A new study found that Black and Hispanic stroke survivors in the US are less likely to receive treatment for common complications, despite improved overall stroke survival rates. Researchers analyzed electronic health records from 2002 to 2022 and matched patients based on 41 factors to minimize biases.
Researchers found that patients treated with butylphthalide experienced milder neurological symptoms and better functioning at three months after a stroke compared to those who received a placebo. The study suggests potential benefits of this celery seed-derived medication in treating ischemic strokes.
Researchers found that pacing patients at faster heart rates improved quality of life, physical activity, and reduced atrial fibrillation. This new treatment approach shows promise in treating heart failure with a stiff heart muscle.
A genomic study of the Seattle 2017-2022 Shigella outbreak revealed its origin as international travelers from areas where Shigella was common. The study also found that multi-drug resistant Shigella has become a growing global health concern, primarily affecting men who have sex with men and those experiencing homelessness.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have discovered the detailed mechanism of action of Inmazeb, a three-antibody cocktail designed to combat Ebola virus infection. The study reveals new information about how the drug interacts with the virus and its potential effectiveness against additional species of Ebolavirus.
Researchers from TIBI have developed an advanced electronic skin patch that provides simultaneous, continuous monitoring of multiple bodily parameters. The new E-skin patch offers enhanced flexibility, thermal cooling abilities, and fluid absorption over conventional substrates while demonstrating excellent biocompatibility and biodegr...
A novel form of chemoimmunotherapy has been proven to be a promising treatment for canine cancer, extending the lives of terminally ill dogs. The therapy uses modified Mesenchymal Stem Cells carrying a potent 'kill-switch' that induces anti-cancer immunity and improves quality of life.
Researchers from UTSA and UT Health San Antonio are developing compounds that target the estrogen receptor-beta, which suppresses cancer growth. The goal is to identify a novel ER-beta agonist with potential as a therapeutic strategy for treating GBM in patients.
Regulatory T cells suppress self-reactive T cells by controlling protein synthesis, maintaining immune tolerance and preventing autoimmunity. A small molecule inhibitor called RocA also shows promise in mitigating inflammatory responses.
Researchers found that patients used various therapeutic strategies to alleviate symptoms, including mind-body medicine, nutritional supplements, exercise, and olfactory training. Many patients need more understanding, recognition, and specific post-COVID health care services, as well as empathy from their doctors.
A controlled clinical trial has shown that the new drug leriglitazone can prevent neurodegeneration and brain inflammation in patients with X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy. The study found improvements in neurological conditions such as balance disorders, which had a positive impact on quality of life.
Researchers successfully applied AlphaFold AI to an end-to-end platform, discovering a novel target and developing a potent hit molecule for liver cancer. The study demonstrates the potential of AI-powered drug discovery to accelerate treatment development.
Researchers have identified the genetic secrets behind skullcap's anti-cancer activity, enabling the production of synthetic compounds. The discovery is expected to lead to more sustainable and rapid synthesis of cancer-fighting molecules.
A new personalized treatment for bile duct cancer has shown remarkable results, with patients surviving for up to two years when treated with the drug futibatinib. The Phase II clinical trial found that the drug was more effective at reducing tumor size and producing modest side effects compared to chemotherapy.
A team of researchers from Korea and USA identified the importance of lipid homeostasis in overcoming brain cancer radioresistance. They found that regulating diacylglycerol kinase B and diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 could potentially sensitize brain cancer cells to radiotherapy, offering a new treatment strategy.
A recent study from West Virginia University found that states permitting nurse practitioners to exercise full practice authority (FPA) tend to have a more diverse and racially aligned NP workforce. In FPA states, Black NPs serve 2.8% more Black Medicare beneficiaries than in non-FPA states.
A large cohort study found that long-term low-dose hydroxychloroquine use is associated with a low risk of developing retinopathy, while higher doses increase the risk. Regular screening can identify the issue at an early stage.
A study of 4,768 patients with cancer found that SARS-CoV-2 infection led to delayed or discontinued cancer treatment, exacerbating existing survival inequities. Racial and area-level social determinants were associated with these delays.
Fewer than one-third of commonly advertised drugs show moderate clinical improvement compared to existing therapies. The study analyzed direct-to-consumer TV advertising and found most featured drugs to lack substantial therapeutic benefits.
A study shows that pharmacies can offer a safe starting point for patients with opioid use disorder, leading to higher rates of retention in treatment. The pharmacy-based model increases access to buprenorphine, a lifesaving medication, for diverse patient populations and promotes racial and economic equity.
A study from Japan found that variations in psychiatric diagnoses across different cultures can affect the efficacy of antipsychotics in clinical trials. Researchers analyzed data from 28 double-blind randomized trials and found that psychotic features were associated with varying therapeutic responses to antipsychotic medications.
Researchers at UBC identified three compounds derived from natural sources that prevent COVID-19 infection in human cells. The discovery paves the way for developing new medicines using natural sources.
A new genetic test has been developed to identify ovarian cancer patients who benefit from PARP inhibitors, a treatment option with significant improvements in prognosis. The test has been optimized for the Finnish population and is clinically approved, allowing for targeted treatment and reduced adverse effects.
A nationwide registry of AVM patients from 52 hospitals in mainland China investigated the efficacy of different treatments on patient groups. The study found that categorizing treatment strategies based on disease severity is an ideal approach, and a multidisciplinary comprehensive assessment promotes individualized treatment protocols.
Researchers have discovered a new biomarker that predicts the response to CAR-T cell therapy in patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma. The biomarker identifies differentiated T cells, which can be removed from leukemia products to improve therapy success rates.
Researchers from prominent institutions discuss hepatocellular carcinoma's pathogenesis, genomic heterogeneity, and targeted therapy options. The review aims to characterize HCC's complexities and develop clinically relevant biomarkers for better management.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in precision oncology for patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma, identifying that certain cell surface molecules decrease or are absent in these patients, making them resistant to the new drug enfortumab vedotin.
Researchers developed a cell-based method to predict breast cancer treatment responses, showing promising results and potential for personalized medicine. The method uses tumour cells and supporting cells from patients, allowing for efficient drug profiling and accurate treatment prediction.
Extracellular vesicles from immune cells have been shown to activate the immune system in mice with skin cancer, rendering them sensitive to checkpoint inhibitor therapy. The treatment improved survival rates when used in combination with checkpoint inhibitors.
Researchers found that plasma GH levels are a potential biomarker for predicting treatment outcomes in patients with advanced HCC treated with Atezo/Bev. The study showed significantly superior overall survival and non-significant trend in favor of GH-low patients compared to GH-high patients.
Dupilumab, an FDA-approved medication, offers new hope for patients with eosinophilic esophagitis, a rising condition in the US. The treatment reduces eosinophil counts and improves symptoms of dysphagia, leading to better endoscopic healing and histologic severity improvements.
The use of 3D-patient tumor avatars (3D-PTAs) is crucial for guiding treatment decisions in precision oncology. These avatars, including patient-derived organoids, 3D bioprinting, and microscale models, can accurately depict a tumor with its microenvironment, enabling the testing and prediction of therapeutic drug efficacy.
A study found that Medicare costs for metastatic prostate cancer increased significantly between 2007 and 2017, with average annual spending per patient rising from $28,311 to $37,055. The majority of the increase was attributed to new treatments under Medicare Part D, such as radium-223, sipuleucel-T, abiraterone, and enzalutamide.
Researchers from Complexity Science Hub and Medical University of Vienna found that high doses of cholesterol-lowering statins impair bone quality in mice, with a significant increase in osteoporosis risk. The study confirms previous findings on the correlation between statin use and osteoporosis diagnosis in humans.
Researchers at HKUMed identified a new type of nasopharyngeal carcinoma associated with EBV and immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment. Global DNA hypermethylation was found to be a critical step in NPC pathogenesis, while global DNA hypomethylation may lead to immune evasion.
A large VA clinical trial found that chlorthalidone (CTD) was not superior to hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) for preventing cardiovascular disease or non-cancer death. The study enrolled over 13,500 Veterans with high blood pressure and showed no difference between the two drugs in terms of effectiveness.
A recent study suggests that stimulating the intersection of two particular brain networks correlated with better patient outcomes than stimulating nearby sites for patients with Alzheimer's disease. Cognitive improvement was associated with DBS to the direct interface between the fornix and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis.
Researchers describe results using cladribine-based combination epigenetic and immunotherapy in MCL, achieving an increased overall survival greater than 40 months with durable remissions without relapse for longer than 5 years. The approach is promising in the treatment of MCL and potentially other previously treatment-refractory canc...
Researchers from The Mount Sinai Hospital found that talquetamab, a bispecific antibody, was successful in killing multiple myeloma cells in over 70% of patients. This therapy directs the immune system to target cancer cells and has shown promise even for those who have resisted all other treatments.
A team of researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University has designed and synthesized novel compounds that have the potential to be effective drugs against COVID-19. The compounds target the main protease enzyme of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is essential for viral replication.
Researchers found that activating the non-mutated form of P53 can change the fundamental makeup of cancer stem cells in mouse models of mucoepidermoid carcinoma. This new therapy approach shows promise for treating this lethal form of salivary gland cancer.
The SERENA-2 trial found camizestrant significantly improves progression-free survival versus fulvestrant in patients with estrogen receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer. Camizestrant demonstrates efficacy across various patient populations, including those with ESR1 mutations and prior CDK4/6 inhibitor treatment.
A UCLA-developed wearable patch analyzes fluid underneath the skin to continuously record medicine concentrations in the body. The technology shows reliable forecasts of total effective medication delivery, offering a step toward improving doctors' ability to administer precise doses.