Articles tagged with Drug Development
A recent study has found greater signs of blood vessel damage than nerve damage in traumatic brain injuries, challenging the ongoing hypothesis that blunt force causes nerve damage. The researchers' discovery could influence the development of new treatments and therapies for TBI.
Researchers at TAU and Ichilov Hospital developed a new antibiotic treatment that significantly reduces intestinal polyp numbers and improves quality of life for FAP patients. The innovative therapy, which targets 'nonsense mutations' in the APC gene, showed promising results in a clinical trial.
Research suggests dapagliflozin can reduce death and hospitalization rates in patients with heart failure, as well as improve health-related quality of life. The study found a 26% reduced risk of primary outcome in the dapagliflozin group compared to placebo, with benefits seen in both patients with and without type 2 diabetes.
A team from Ruhr-University Bochum has deciphered a new mechanism that enables the regeneration of nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. By eliminating the inhibiting protein PTEN, researchers can partially restore regenerative capacity in nerve cells, but direct inhibition is not suitable due to cancer risks.
Researchers at Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine have gained new understanding of anti-malarial drug primaquine, a cornerstone in global efforts to eliminate malaria. The discovery may lead to the development of newer and safer antimalarial drugs.
A study analyzing 216 early benefit assessments in Germany found that half of new drugs lack proven added benefits. The researchers call for mandatory comparisons between new and standard treatments to improve patient care.
Researchers argue that international drug development processes and policies are responsible for the lack of evidence supporting added benefits for most new drugs. Only 54 out of 216 assessed drugs showed considerable or major added benefits, with many more lacking clear evidence of benefit over standard care.
Researchers characterized the interaction between potentiators and cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein at atomic resolution. The study found that two distinct compounds act on the same region of CFTR, pointing to strategies for developing more effective drugs.
A study of 17,018 individuals with autoimmune diseases found a twofold increased risk of developing Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis after treatment with etanercept. This association suggests that anti-TNFα agents may provoke inflammatory bowel disease through common immune dysregulation mechanisms.
NTU Singapore scientists have developed a new lab-created peptide ligase based on genetic information from the Chinese violet, which may help speed up drug development and improve diagnostic imaging. The enzyme has exceptional binding properties and can be produced in large quantities without by-products.
Researchers at UNIGE have created a 3D cell co-culture platform to test personalized cancer treatments, demonstrating that low-dose combinations of drugs are more effective than high-dose monotherapies. The platform opens the door to rapid and cost-effective treatment options for various types of tumors.
A study by Fertility Centers of Illinois found that children conceived through assisted reproductive technology (ART) achieve similar developmental milestones as those conceived naturally, with a slight advantage at 12 months. The study analyzed data from over 1,800 parents and showed no significant impact on childhood development.
Researchers have mapped the structure of a chloride channel in muscle cells, providing new information on its regulation. The findings may lead to more efficient drug development for neuromuscular diseases such as ALS and SMA.
Researchers at Tufts University have found that a drug mimicking the ketogenic diet can improve brain function in mice after TBI and prevent the development of epileptic activity. This new approach could potentially be used to treat post-traumatic epilepsy and restore normal synaptic communication in the brain.
Scientists have discovered that USP25 is inactive in its isolated form and forms a tetramer, whereas USP28 exists as a constitutively active dimer. This knowledge provides the molecular basis for developing targeted anti-cancer drugs with low side effects.
A biomedical engineer is developing a therapeutic option that would prevent the opiates from crossing the blood-brain barrier, preventing the high abusers seek. The treatment involves generating an anti-opioid antibody that will arrest the drug in circulation and prevent it from getting to the brain.
Researchers have developed a new technique to measure the binding of thousands of small molecules to mucus components, revealing a previously unknown pattern associated with mucin binding. This breakthrough could lead to better treatments for diseases characterized by excessive mucus production.
The study demonstrated that DSM265 can clear low-level Plasmodium falciparum parasitemia with a single oral dose. A companion drug is needed to prevent development of resistance and advance the goal of eradicating malaria.
Microfabricated surfaces with hair-like micropillars can entrap particles at five times the density of commercial patches, enabling higher drug contents and potential biomedical applications. The technology could also be used for industrial purposes, building on the unique properties of honey bee legs.
Researchers at UTMB have developed a promising drug that significantly increases muscle size, strength and metabolic state in aged mice. The study found that the drug resets muscle stem cells to a more youthful state, rejuvenating them to effectively repair muscle tissues.
Certara has published four peer-reviewed papers on MIPD, outlining the vision and practical path for making individualized dosing a reality. MIPD uses computer modeling to predict optimal drug doses for patients based on their unique characteristics, especially those in vulnerable populations.
The review finds that while antibiotic development has improved, the most recently approved drugs represent modifications to existing classes rather than innovative approaches. Unmet needs persist due to a lack of treatment options for multidrug-resistant infections.
A multidisciplinary team of researchers has developed a human induced pluripotent stem cell (IPSC) derived 3D organoid model for drug testing. The system demonstrated anti-tumor efficacy with doxorubicin and predicted clinical response to temozolomide, offering a more personalized approach to treating glioblastoma.
Scientists identified an enzyme that regulates kidney function and found that excessive suppression can trigger renal failure. This research has implications for the use of existing drugs like lithium and the development of new pharmaceuticals.
Researchers have successfully constructed a three-dimensional human epidermis based on predictions made by their mathematical model of epidermal homeostasis. The epidermal equivalent exhibits excellent barrier functionality and thickness, providing a promising new tool for basic research and drug development.
Researchers at University at Buffalo received an $880,000 grant to develop a model of the female reproductive tract for testing drugs delivered vaginally or to the uterus. This project aims to create cost-effective generic equivalents for existing medications, addressing the limited availability of affordable treatment options.
Chemical synthesis breakthrough offers hope in combating lethal drug-resistant infections; researchers develop efficient, scaleable antibiotics to fight Staphylococcus aureus and other bacterial species.
A new combined action drug was developed by Russian scientists using ionizing radiation and bacterial toxin, showing a 2,200 times stronger effect than separate use. The drug selectively targets tumor cells and facilitates visualization of tumors, making it a diagnostic tool for cancer treatment.
A new study by McGill University researchers suggests that clinical trials may promote the use of ineffective and costly treatments, particularly with blockbuster pain drug pregabalin. The researchers found that despite strong evidence supporting pregabalin's effectiveness for certain conditions, many studies failed to conduct rigorous...
Cannabidiol (CBD) has demonstrated significant antiepileptic efficacy, resulting in a 38-41% reduction in seizure frequency compared to placebo. CBD is well-tolerated but may cause side effects such as sedation and decreased appetite.
Researchers developed a contact lens that changes color as drugs are released into the eye, enabling real-time monitoring of treatment efficacy. The molecularly imprinted contact lenses can indicate sustained release of many ophthalmic drugs, potentially reducing side effects.
Researchers found that patients taking full-dose allopurinol for gout flares had a lower risk of developing Stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) compared to non-users. The use of allopurinol may be beneficial in reducing kidney disease risk, contrary to previous concerns.
A team at University of Tsukuba developed a tool to image atherosclerotic plaque development in mice, allowing for the evaluation of drugs and analysis of individual patient risk. The method involves expressing fluorescent protein in immune cells that congregate in plaque, enabling accurate measurement of plaque quantity and progression.
Researchers at Lund University discovered that intestinal bacteria like Enterococcus faecalis can generate an electric current from breaking down sugar inside their cells. This finding has implications for bioenergy production, waste treatment, and biosensors.
Researchers developed an artificial neural network that can compare medical concepts to specific symptoms mentioned by patients on social media. The AI system uses semantic vector word representation and can identify symptoms like insomnia or vertigo with high accuracy.
Researchers found that increased antioxidant enzyme expression and decreased NADPH-oxidase activity hinder treatment efficiency. This study reveals a redox-dependent mechanism of drug resistance development in ovarian cancer cells.
Researchers found that low-dose BPA exposure can trigger an insulin response in humans, similar to animal studies showing insulin resistance. The study suggests that exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals like BPA may contribute to the development of Type 2 diabetes.
The Doris Duke Charitable Foundation has awarded a grant to the Critical Path Institute (C-Path) to accelerate the development of therapies for sickle cell disease. C-Path will plan a consortium of stakeholders to identify and work collaboratively on jointly beneficial drug development tools and novel methodologies.
Researchers discovered a protein called HIF helps heart cells survive after a heart attack, but its effect is blocked by fats accumulating within the heart muscle in people with diabetes. Repurposed drugs that activate HIF may help prevent lasting heart muscle damage and improve recovery in Type 2 diabetics.
A study published in the European Heart Journal reveals that microvascular dysfunction is a prevalent underlying disease mechanism in patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction. The research highlights the importance of identifying patients at risk and developing targeted therapies to improve outcomes.
Researchers at the University of Warwick have developed a novel method to synthesise hundreds of polymers for potential antibacterial applications. The method enables rapid screening of large libraries of polymers, leading to the identification of new antimicrobials that inhibit bacteria growth rather than breaking their membranes.
The authors propose increasing incentives and modifying regulations to improve competition, redirecting overinvestment in new drug development to the generic market, and pivoting from short-term survival mode to long-term organized responses. These solutions aim to enhance competition, provide patients with reliable access to vital dru...
Researchers mapped Okinawan habu genome to identify venom production genes, potentially leading to novel therapies for cancer and cardiovascular diseases. The venom's hemotoxic properties destroy blood cells and tissues, causing severe pain and permanent damage.
Researchers at LSU have characterized the cell wall structure of Aspergillus fumigatus, a fatal fungus affecting over 200,000 people annually. The high-resolution architecture reveals a semi-waterproof core and sugar-protein mixture, providing molecular basis for engineering effective antifungal drugs.
A Belgian study emphasizes the need for human-based tools in treating non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a chronic liver disease impacting millions globally. The study proposes a roadmap to better understand NASH's biological mechanisms, crucial for developing effective treatments.
Research found trials supporting drugs granted 'breakthrough' status often lacked randomization and control groups, enrolling small patient numbers. This suggests a lack of robust evidence to support the use of these therapies for serious or life-threatening conditions.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a unique type of signaling from damaged DNA that triggers huntingtin activity in DNA repair. This signaling is defective in Huntington's disease and can be restored with a molecule called N6-furfuryladenine, reversing symptoms and restoring mutant huntingtin protein levels to normal.
A recent study published in The BMJ found that patients with a recorded penicillin allergy are at an increased risk of developing MRSA and C difficile infections. The risk is largely due to the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics as alternatives to penicillin, which may be fueling the development of drug-resistant bacteria.
A new mathematical framework predicts the efficacy of pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medications, helping streamline the development of new treatments. The framework integrates molecular factors that affect drug efficacy, allowing researchers to evaluate clinical efficacy prior to clinical trials.
A study of 90 C-section deliveries found that prior C-sections, smoking, illicit drug use, and higher BMI increased the likelihood of developing a C-section infection. The majority of infections were caused by common commensal organisms like Staphylococcus species and Escherichia coli.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have created ChemMaps, a webserver that allows users to interactively navigate the chemical space of over 8,000 drugs and 47,000 environmental compounds in 3D. The platform features two main maps: DrugMap and EnvMap, which include approved drugs and environmental chemicals, respectively.
Researchers from the University of Virginia have established new guidelines for scientists mapping out the body molecule by molecule to better understand how cells use metals. The guidelines aim to prevent pitfalls that could compromise work in X-ray crystallography, a technique used to reveal small molecular structures.
Researchers found that valproic acid, an antiepileptic drug, can cause birth defects in frog embryos by interfering with glutamate signaling. The study suggests that new epilepsy medications could be developed to be safer for pregnant women.
A new method of predicting how chemical compounds will interact has been identified by researchers at the University of Kent. The study used computer modelling to exhibit desired properties before the compounds even exist in real life, potentially speeding up drug development and reducing costs.
A team of scientists identified 7 compounds that show new effects against HIV-1, Zika virus, and Rift Valley Fever, expanding the available therapeutics for viral disease treatment. The researchers believe these broad-spectrum antiviral drugs could save resources and time needed for development of novel drugs.
A recent study reveals that valproic acid can cause lower levels of transporters for essential compounds in the placenta, leading to impaired fetal growth and development. The research suggests a possible link between valproic acid exposure and adverse outcomes such as major congenital malformations and autism.
The Critical Path Institute has received a $10 million grant from the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust to identify unmet needs for biomarker development in Crohn's disease. The pre-consortium will focus on laying the groundwork for future regulatory endorsement and accelerate the development of new treatments.
Engineers at the University of California San Diego developed a miniature biosensor that can be implanted under the skin to track alcohol levels continuously. The chip consumes ultra-low power and is powered wirelessly by a wearable device, making it suitable for long-term monitoring in substance abuse treatment programs.
A new method has been developed to determine the crystal structures of organic salts, significantly speeding up the development of medications. This breakthrough is expected to reduce the time and cost associated with screening organic salts, leading to a faster discovery of effective pharmaceutical ingredients.
Researchers have developed a new way to measure the activity of heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), a protein associated with poor prognosis in cancer patients. By identifying specific client proteins tied to Hsp70 activity, scientists can now develop potential therapies by testing small molecules in real-world environments.