Articles tagged with Drug Development
Researchers discover that lanosterol stimulates the degradation of cholesterol-building enzyme HMG CoA reductase, controlling cellular cholesterol production. This finding has important clinical implications for improving cholesterol control in statin therapy.
A new international treaty aims to address the global management of publicly funded health R&D, prioritizing diseases with a high burden such as tuberculosis and leishmaniasis. The treaty would provide a binding framework for redirecting knowledge and scientific expertise towards priority needs.
Researchers found that 'blips' in HIV treatment were not clinically significant and did not lead to drug resistance. The blips were attributed to random statistical fluctuations rather than ongoing viral replication or developing resistance.
The National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) funded a 10-year project to determine the shapes of proteins found in nature. The pilot phase yielded over 1,000 protein structures, transforming structure determination from manual to highly automated processes.
Researchers have made a major breakthrough in understanding how the FSH hormone attaches to its receptor, paving the way for improved fertility drugs. The crystal structure of FSH and its receptor reveals key details about their interaction, which could lead to the development of new oral drugs for fertility treatments.
Researchers found that levels of circulating endothelial cells and progenitor cells correlate with tumor blood vessel growth and response to antiangiogenic therapy. Measuring these cells could be a reliable surrogate for therapeutic inhibition of angiogenesis.
Researchers developed a new way to predict the number of drug users, finding two epidemic periods with significant increases in opiate and injecting drug users between 1975 and 1995. The study suggests the number of current opiate users has continued to rise since the early 1970s, doubling between 1977 and 1982.
Gene expression is a complex process that translates genetic information into biological activity, impacting various diseases. NIST's Metrology for Gene Expression Program aims to evaluate and standardize microarray analysis techniques to ensure quality and comparability.
Researchers found that bretylium tosylate, an old antiarrhythmic drug, prevents arrhythmias and reduces heart muscle damage after AMI. Blocking the sympathetic nervous system may be a key factor in its effectiveness.
OneWorld Health recognized as a Business Leader of the Scientific American 50 for its groundbreaking work on affordable medicines. The institute has made significant progress in developing treatments for deadly parasitic diseases, with preliminary positive results announced for visceral leishmaniasis.
A worldwide survey of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation found varying methods, effectiveness, and complications. The study reported a significant increase in procedures, but also noted major complications such as early deaths, strokes, and tamponade.
A study suggests that peripheral blood analysis can help develop surrogate biomarkers of stroke risk and prognosis, providing insights into cellular and pathological mechanisms. Blood studies offer a faster and more practical alternative to brain tissue samples, allowing for serial data collection throughout the ongoing stroke.
Researchers found only six new antibiotics in R&D pipeline, a 56% decline since 1998. The lack of new antibiotics poses significant risks for patients and public health due to emerging drug-resistant bacteria.
A study by the Infectious Diseases Society of America found that HIV drugs from developing countries meet US standards for active ingredient levels. Bioequivalency studies are still necessary to ensure efficacy and safety, according to lead author Dr. Scott Penzak.
Researchers studied fruitfly embryos to understand how specific cells change shape during gastrulation, a critical growth step in development. They found that many types of proteins are involved and that changes occur well before the cells actually transform.
OneWorld Health plans to launch a network of volunteer pharmaceutical scientists to develop treatments for diseases like visceral leishmaniasis, Chagas disease, and malaria. The initiative aims to harness the expertise of industry professionals to address global health disparities.
The new center will integrate basic molecular and cellular research with advanced imaging technologies and computational science to understand complex biological systems. This collaboration aims to develop computer models of entire cells, revolutionizing drug development and reducing costs.
A Swedish study found that risperidone long-acting injection reduced hospital admissions by 23% and mean hospital stay duration by 35%. This results in significant cost savings for the healthcare system, with estimates suggesting up to €6,300 per patient annually.
This special issue aims to expand knowledge on drug supply and trafficking by providing accessible information to academic researchers. The articles cover various aspects of the topic, including a case study of a middle market drug broker and a conceptual framework for action against drug supply.
A new grant of US$41 million from the Global Fund will support HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention in South Africa over 2 years. Generic antiretrovirals will be developed and produced locally, offering affordable access to life-saving medications.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new method to separate proteins in the gas phase, allowing for faster analysis and enabling the study of hundreds of proteins simultaneously. The technique uses a mass spectrometer to collect ions onto different locations on a chip's surface, producing highly pure protein samples.
Vitamin A supplements have saved millions of lives by preventing childhood blindness and reducing mortality rates. Dr. Alfred Sommer's research also shows that supplementing women with vitamin A can reduce maternal mortality by an average of 45 percent.
A recent study highlights the importance of nurses in reporting adverse drug reactions (ADRs). The research found that the proportion and quality of reports received from nurses were similar to those from doctors. This suggests that nurses can play a valuable part in enhancing pharmacovigilance within the UK.
Researchers found that a combination of endostatin and radiation therapy reduced new blood vessel growth in mice with squamous cell cancer. After radiation, endostatin blocked the growth of new blood vessels, leading to long-term survival and tumor control in 40% of mice.
The Lancet editorial emphasizes the importance of addressing health disparities in global conflicts. Experts highlight the need for international cooperation to mitigate the devastating effects of war on vulnerable populations.
A Bayer BP team introduced six decision points to help determine whether to continue developing a new drug for dissolving blood clots. The process has improved forecasting technical and market risks, allowing for more informed decisions.
Researchers are working towards individualized treatments using DNA chip technology to analyze gene expression and detect host genetic polymorphisms. This approach aims to optimize drug selection and doses at a molecular level, reducing toxicity and improving patient outcomes for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
A study found that HIV patients with cognitive impairment who took medications three times a day had lower adherence rates than those on simpler schedules. Researchers suggest giving simpler dosing to help patients stick to their medication schedules.
Graham Dukes argues that the pharmaceutical industry prioritizes shareholder interests over global public health. He criticizes the industry's practices, including excessive pricing and promotional activities, which do not account for societal needs.
Studying genetically engineered mice that lack specific PDE4 subtypes, researchers found that inhibition of PDE4D mediates much of the emetic response. The study aims to develop subtype-specific inhibitors effective in airways without affecting other tissues.
A new study found that GLP-1 receptor agonists can increase heart rate and blood pressure in animals, suggesting potential risks for diabetes treatment. The findings may impact the use of these agents in humans with Type II diabetes.
In a large clinical trial, patients with impaired glucose tolerance who took acarbose were 25% less likely to develop type-2 diabetes than those taking placebo. Acarbose also helped reversion of impaired glucose tolerance to normal glucose tolerance. The main side effects were flatulence and diarrhea.
Researchers created mice with human alpha-synuclein gene to study MSA pathology. Healthy cells do not produce this protein, while affected cells form insoluble inclusion bodies.
Researchers describe atomic structure of rotavirus protein NSP2, which drives viral genome replication and packaging. Identifying this protein as a potential target for anti-viral drugs could help combat rotavirus infections.
Researchers developed method for biodegradable polymer microspheres with precise size and shell thickness, enabling controlled-release drug delivery and single-shot vaccinations. The technology can generate constant rate of release over time, improving patient comfort and compliance.
The UC San Diego Department of Psychiatry will provide annual conferences, consultation services, and education campaigns to support SACPA's goal of reducing crime and improving health outcomes for non-violent offenders. The partnership aims to address the root causes of addiction as a public health issue.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have discovered a marine compound, pateamine A, with immunosuppressive properties. The study could lead to the development of new immunosuppressive drugs, and pharmaceutical companies are already inquiring about licensing the compound.
Murray Goodman, a bioorganic chemist at the University of California, San Diego, has developed new strategies to create more effective and selective drugs. His research aims to mimic the action of peptides, which help direct processes in the body, and improve upon their natural opioids.
Researchers have developed a mouse model that can be infected with the hepatitis C virus, allowing them to test new therapies and study viral replication. This breakthrough could lead to the development of a cure for the disease, which affects an estimated 175 million people worldwide.
A study assessing guideline quality found 64.6% needed modification, while drug company sponsorship negatively impacted quality. Efforts to promote well-developed guidelines in Ontario are underway.
A public-private partnership has been launched to combat osteoarthritis, a chronic disease affecting millions of Americans. The Osteoarthritis Initiative will provide critical funding and resources for clinical research centers to establish natural history databases and biospecimen repositories.
A UC Berkeley scientist proposes that chromosome reassortment, rather than genetic mutations, is the cause of cancer's tendency to develop drug resistance. This theory suggests aneuploid cells, with abnormal numbers of chromosomes, are more prone to producing drug-resistant cancer cells.
Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center have discovered a genetic mutation in the MAD2 protein that makes cancer cells genetically unstable and resistant to chemotherapy drugs. This finding may lead to new treatments and diagnostic markers for aggressive tumors.
Researchers used 'gene chips' to analyze the effects of two antibiotics on bacteria, revealing distinct gene signatures that can aid in developing novel antibiotics. This technology helps classify and combat increasingly resistant bacterial strains.
A study found that pneumatic compression and extended anticoagulant drug therapy lower the risk of developing symptomatic blood clots after hip replacement surgery, with overweight patients most at risk. Pneumatic compression was effective in normal-weight patients, while warfarin therapy benefited all patients.
Scientists have nearly eliminated pre-cancerous colon polyps in mice susceptible to colon tumors by combining an aspirin-like compound with a drug that inhibits epidermal growth factor activity. The combination therapy successfully blocked the development of pre-cancerous polyps and reduced cancerous tumor formation by over 95%.
Researchers at Purdue University have devised a way to stabilize nanoparticles made of metal by wrapping them in a molecular coating. This process prevents the nanoparticles from fusing together and allows for easy manipulation, opening doors to new nano-structured materials.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a procedure that virtually eliminates tissue growth and subsequent blockages after angioplasty, reducing the risk by 90%. The ceramide-coated balloon catheters inhibit vascular smooth muscle cell growth, preventing arterial obstruction.
Virginia Tech dairy scientist R. Michael Akers has greatly advanced understanding of mammary gland development, growth factors, and transgenic technology worldwide. His research discovered new information about growth hormone regulation and produced transgenic mice that synthesize IGF-I in their mammary tissue.
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) has awarded $15 million in grants to 45 scientists worldwide to develop new approaches for treating various infectious and parasitic diseases. The selected researchers will focus on specific diseases or study underlying biological processes to control or cure these conditions.
Dr. Paul Janssen received the CINP-Pfizer Pioneers in Psychopharmacology Award for his work revolutionizing treatment of psychosis and introducing risperidone, a first-choice antipsychotic worldwide.
Over 5,000 experts worldwide support the Durban Declaration, stating that HIV is the cause of AIDS and urging governments to focus on prevention efforts. The declaration aims to eliminate misinformation and mobilize the world to combat the devastating consequences of AIDS.
Scientists discovered that a specific protein controls the developmental destiny of white blood cells. Increasing or decreasing this protein's levels can direct the cells' fate, raising hopes for new therapies.
A recent study suggests that aspirin-like drugs could be useful in treating cancer by reducing tumor growth and angiogenesis. The researchers found that eliminating the gene for cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) or using COX-2 inhibitors significantly slowed down lung tumor growth in animal models.
A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine confirms Requip's efficacy in managing early Parkinson's disease symptoms with a low risk of developing dyskinesias. Patients taking Requip alone were seven times more likely to remain dyskinesia-free than those on levodopa alone.
A study published in JAMA found that nurse home visits to pregnant women and their families significantly improved health outcomes for years to come. The program reduced time on welfare, increased stability in family structure, and promoted economic self-sufficiency among mothers.
Researchers are developing a bioartificial liver that can filter blood toxins and provide temporary support for patients with severe liver failure. The device is being upgraded with freshly isolated pig liver cells and a pulsating bioreactor to improve performance, and the first human clinical trials are scheduled to begin soon.
A new diode laser technique developed by MGH dermatologist Eliot Battle successfully removes excessive hair from individuals with darker ethnic skin. The longer-wavelength laser light and slower pulse delivery reduce damage to the surrounding skin, enabling patients with darker skin tones to tolerate higher energy dosages.
A new rapid and reliable method for detecting tuberculosis has been developed, using the microscopic observation broth-drug susceptibility assay (MODS). The test is inexpensive and sensitive enough to be used in the field by health officers in developing countries.
The University of Illinois at Chicago's bioengineering department has received a $990,000 grant to strengthen its programs in interfacial molecular bioengineering. With the funding, UIC plans to develop new curriculum and prepare graduates with skills to understand both biology and science in emerging technologies.