Research on discovering and developing new drugs. Covers structure-revealing tools, eye-disease mechanisms, protein screening, and once-daily oral medicines.
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.
A new study reveals that fentanyl can increase pain sensitivity in animals by lowering their pain threshold. The researchers found that blocking calcium signaling inside sensory neurons prevents this effect, suggesting a possible mechanism for hyperalgesia.
A study by Toyohashi University of Technology found that cell membrane components form isolated domains within an artificial lipid bilayer, separated from the surrounding membrane. The findings provide valuable information for understanding membrane protein functions and developing experimental techniques.
A study of oligonucleotide drug impurities reveals opportunities for process improvements and the application of information from one drug substance to another. The report, published in Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, provides clarity on product-related impurities.
A machine learning analysis found an association between genetic variability in the PPARG gene and altered cerebral connectivity in preterm infants. This study suggests that the PPARG signaling pathway may influence neurocognitive problems after preterm birth.
A new dual-purpose drug delivery device, SCHIELD, aims to provide long-acting contraception and HIV prevention for women in low- and middle-income countries. The device, set to be launched in Kenya and South Africa, has the potential to improve health outcomes and empower women.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have identified biomarkers that can aid in the development of better treatments for schizophrenia. The biomarkers were successfully tested in over 90% of individuals who received ketamine, and reliably distinguished them from those who had been given a placebo.
A diabetes drug that increases the movement of regulatory T cells into human organs may help prevent transplant rejection without side effects. Researchers found that the enzyme glucokinase is linked to increased movement of these immune cells, which act as guardians against organ rejection.
Researchers have discovered a new chemical reaction to synthesize diazabicyclo[3.2.1]octanes, which could lead to breakthroughs in drug development. The new approach allows for the rapid synthesis of complex compounds without requiring additional reagents or catalysts.
Researchers at RUDN University have developed a way to produce benzofurans, a key component in various pharmaceutical substances, from cheap agricultural and woody waste. The new approach uses salicyl alcohols derived from low-cost chemicals, enabling the creation of new benzofuran-based drug substances.
A research team from the University of Cincinnati has developed a consensus model of human apolipoprotein A-I, a key component of HDL, which could lead to new strategies for increasing good cholesterol. This breakthrough was achieved through collaborative effort and innovative use of indirect experimental techniques.
Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a device that uses structural color to measure the beating of heart cells, enabling high-throughput testing for pharmaceuticals. This innovation aims to speed up the process of finding good drugs for heart patients and is a significant step towards improving treatment outcomes.
Scientists discover dysfunctional autophagy plays a central role in motor neuron diseases, characterized by muscle atrophy and loss. The PLEKHG5 gene controls the degradation of synaptic vesicles, and its dysfunction leads to aggregation and motor neuron disorder progression.
Vasanthi Jayaraman receives Maximizing Investigators' Research Award to study brain cell communication, developing high-resolution images of glutamate receptors for potential drug targets. Her research aims to enhance learning and memory, treat neurodegenerative conditions like Lou Gehrig's disease.
A team of leading European clinicians and scientists presents a unique perspective on how to move forward in the development of exon skipping therapies for DMD. The authors discuss the main challenges and opportunities for these therapeutic agents going forward, including biomarkers in AON drug development and regulatory tools in the EU.
TBA-7371 and sutezolid have entered phase 1 clinical trials after early preclinical development. These novel drugs show promise in treating TB with no pre-existing resistance, addressing a growing concern in the disease's increasing resistance to older treatments.
The partnership between genetic testing companies and orphan drug developers has both positive and negative implications. On the one hand, it can lead to faster diagnosis and treatment of rare diseases. However, there are also concerns over patient privacy and potential price-gouging due to rising healthcare costs.
A recent study analyzed U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings for 10 companies developing a cancer drug from 2006 through 2015, estimating a median time of 7.3 years to develop the drug and a median cost of $648 million.
A study found that a coffee compound called cafestol improves cell function and insulin sensitivity in laboratory mice, potentially spurring the development of new Type 2 diabetes treatments. Daily consumption of cafestol may delay the onset of diabetes in humans, according to researchers.
A synthetic version of low molecular weight heparin, proven safe and effective in preclinical trials, is set to enter clinical trials. The new compound offers several advantages over its natural counterpart, including reduced risk of contamination and improved safety for patients with poor kidney function.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have discovered a molecule, Takinib, that appears to spur cell death in tumors and inflammation. By targeting the TNF-alpha signaling process, Takinib inhibits an enzyme called TAK-1, which controls cell survival.
Researchers have designed a complex sugar molecule that binds to galectin-1, enabling the immune system to recognize and attack tumor cells. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new drugs and rapid tests for early cancer detection.
Ryohei Yasuda, Scientific Director of MPFI, received the 2017 Nakaakira Tsukahara Memorial Prize for his groundbreaking work on synaptic plasticity. His research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying neural circuit function and memory formation.
A team of scientists is pooling their expertise to develop fast diagnostic tests and alternative treatments for infection, aiming to address the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance. The University of Edinburgh's new research facility will bring together dozens of researchers worldwide to tackle this major health challenge.
Nicole F. Steinmetz receives two NIH grants to develop microscopic drug-delivery systems for triple negative breast cancer patients and patients at risk of serious blood clots. The funding will enable her team to explore mechanisms behind anti-tumor effects and develop dual-pronged therapeutic approaches.
Researchers challenge existing understanding of MLL-translocation leukemia by finding that MLL2, not MLL, is the most appropriate target for drugs. The study shows that silencing wildtype MLL has no effect on disease development, but combining it with MLL2 knockout leads to significant reduction in leukemia.