Articles tagged with Drug Targets
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
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Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A major international study published in Nature Genetics has provided new insights into the genetics of preterm birth and pregnancy length. The research reveals a mutually antagonistic effect between the woman's and unborn child's genes, favoring earlier labor for the mother's survival and extending pregnancy for the child's weight gain.
Researchers developed a hybrid micro-robot that can navigate in physiological environments and capture targeted damaged cells. The micro-robot uses electric and magnetic mechanisms to identify and transport single cells for further study.
Researchers from Kyushu University found that the single mechanosensitive protein VGLL3 induces fibrosis, thickening and scarring tissue. The study suggests targeting this protein could lead to new treatments against fibrosis.
Researchers from China have identified inosine as a potential broad-spectrum anti-inflammatory agent that improves survival in mice infected with SARS-CoV-2. The study also highlights TBK1 as a promising target for inhibiting cytokine storms and mitigating acute inflammatory lung injury.
Researchers have identified a highly conserved region of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein that could be targeted to boost human antibody responses against any coronavirus. The discovery could aid the development of more powerful antibody drugs and vaccines against COVID-19 and emerging coronaviruses.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have made significant progress in treating multiple myeloma using chimeric antigen receptor therapy (CAR-T cell therapy), which has shown a median progression-free survival of 13.3 months compared to 4.4 months for standard treatment regimens.
A new study highlights the need for testing patients who arrive at hospital intoxicated by drink or drunks to understand how they become intoxicated and reduce feelings of self-blame. The review authors argue that this lack of clarity can exacerbate psychological distress, leading to feelings of guilt, shame, and fear.
Researchers at NTU Singapore have found a way to spur brain immune cells to clear toxic waste linked to Alzheimer’s disease by targeting their metabolism. The study reveals a ‘metabolic switch’ in the brain’s immune cells that can be manipulated to improve their function.
A new review paper from Mayo Clinic outlines how obesity impacts common tests used to diagnose heart disease, such as ECG, CT scan, MRI, and echocardiogram. The study highlights the need for alternative approaches to prevent weight gain in patients with heart disease.
A survey of over 2,500 teens and young adults found that vaping nicotine and THC is associated with self-reported symptoms of depression and anxiety. Dual vapers were more likely to report addiction to nicotine and feel less depressed after starting vaping.
A study found that over 80% of American adults with type 2 diabetes meet the criteria to use GLP-1 RAs or SGLT2is, but only a small percentage are using them. The medications have a substantially higher cost than current first-line treatments, making it difficult for patients to access them.
Researchers linked hundreds of proteins to common metabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes, finding potential targets for treatment. The study identified genes and proteins associated with increased disease risk, including GRP hormone which decreases the chances of becoming overweight.
Researchers identified apremilast as an incredibly promising treatment for alcohol use disorder, reducing consumption by more than half in a clinical trial. The medication, approved for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, triggers increased activity in the brain's nucleus accumbens to control alcohol intake.
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have identified a vital contributor to hyperactive immune responses and neuroinflammation in multiple sclerosis. Blocking this regulator alleviated harmful inflammation in lab mice, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for new treatments.
Despite industry claims of high R&D costs, most biopharmaceutical companies spent more on selling and administrative activities. New medicines often offer little or no added clinical value, leading to concerns over high prices.
Researchers found that gatekeeper mutations in kinases can destabilize the inactive form, making them more active and prone to cancer recurrence. This could inform which drugs oncologists use as a first-line treatment.
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.
A study analyzed gene expression data from 46 different human tissues to understand the impact of circadian and circannual cycles on human health. The research revealed that certain genes have strong diurnal or seasonal preferences, which could inform effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
A study by Pusan National University researchers investigates the effects of mild acid hydrolysis on sulfated fucans in sea cucumbers and sea urchins. The results show selective 2-desulfation, leading to an 8-sugar-long oligosaccharide production.
A new neuroprotectant medication called ApTOLL has been shown to improve survival and reduce long-term disability among patients with stroke. The study found that ApTOLL, when used in conjunction with standard treatments, reduced death and brain damage, suggesting a promising new approach to treating stroke.
A team of researchers at MUSC discovered a neural circuit that inhibits motivated behaviors, which can prevent reward-seeking behavior in high-risk contexts. Administering opioids causes immediate disruption of this circuit, leading to even riskier behaviors.
A Rutgers study found that older people living with HIV/AIDS face unmet mental health needs and are more likely to experience PTSD, substance dependence, and suicidal thoughts. Resilience may play a crucial role in increasing adherence to antiretroviral therapy, which is essential to ending the AIDS epidemic.
The NCI is funding a $587,000 research grant to improve KRAS treatment resistance in pancreatic cancer. Dr. Andrew Waters aims to develop personalized medicine approaches by studying unique resistance mechanisms.
Research highlights underuse of dual blood thinners in women after minor stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), with potential benefits for stroke prevention. A study analyzed electronic health records of 2,953 adults and found that women were less likely to receive the treatment regimen, despite evidence suggesting its effectiveness.
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 have identified a new class of potent antimalarial compounds that target the parasite's sexual phase, preventing it from infecting mosquitoes and subsequently humans. The compounds inhibit the parasitic protein Pfs16, forming the strongest bond with the drug.
Scientists at MIT have designed a novel nanoparticle platform that can deliver optimal ratios of multiple cancer drugs, leading to enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects. The bottlebrush-shaped particles can be loaded with varying concentrations of drugs, enabling the precise delivery of synergistic combinations.
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 at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital used cryo-electron microscopy to capture the first 3D structure of SPOP, a protein mutated in prostate and endometrial cancers. The study revealed previously unknown interfaces that harbor cancer-causing mutations, shedding light on how SPOP drives cancer.
Biomarkers of bone turnover are essential for diagnosing and treating metabolic musculoskeletal diseases. The International Osteoporosis Foundation, IFCC, and ESCEO have collaborated to publish authoritative reviews on the use and interpretation of these biomarkers.
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 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 new study uses serial femtosecond X-ray crystallography to reveal the structure of NendoU protein at room temperature. The resulting high-resolution image shows that the protein's flexibility plays a crucial role in its functional mechanism, which is essential for designing antiviral drugs against SARS-CoV-2.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh discovered that exhausted cancer-fighting T cells can become immunosuppressive when working in low-oxygen tumor environments. Targeting these conditions can reinvigorate these cells, improving response to immune-based cancer therapies.
Patent thickets and evergreening strategies hinder generic competition, leading to higher brand name drug prices. Generic entry can drop prices by 90%, affecting patient welfare. Patent expert Sean Tu advocates for a balanced patent system that promotes innovation while preventing monopolies.
Researchers found reduced serotonin release capacity in individuals with depression, suggesting a blunted serotonin system. The study used novel imaging techniques to measure serotonin levels in the brain, providing crucial insights into the pathology of depression.
Researchers discovered 10 novel genetic loci associated with osteoarthritis, which are robustly found in every population ancestry studied. The study also identified genes expected to contribute to OA included targets for existing drugs against cancer, epilepsy and acne.
Researchers identify an off-patent liver disease drug that can prevent SARS-CoV-2 entry into cells, potentially offering protection against future variants. The study used a unique combination of 'mini-organs', animal studies, and human subjects to demonstrate the drug's effectiveness.
A new mechanism has been uncovered that enables cancer cells to move throughout the body, allowing them to spread and form metastases. This discovery provides a potential new target for stopping these deadly spreads, which are responsible for 90% of cancer deaths.
Researchers found shared genetic factors that contribute to severe COVID-19 risk and blood analyte levels. High triglyceride levels were strongly linked to increased risk of severe disease, supporting the use of lipid-lowering drugs against severe COVID-19.
Scientists at Medical College of Georgia discover a new target to intervene in coronary artery disease, the most common type of heart disease. The target is ATIC, a gene essential for purine production, which increases in response to arterial disease.
Research found that states legalizing recreational cannabis saw a slight increase in alcohol consumption, particularly among young adults and men. The study suggests that targeted public health messaging and policy interventions can mitigate problem drinking. However, the impact of long-term effects on binge or heavy drinking is unclear.
Researchers at University of Pittsburgh have designed novel nanoparticles that co-deliver a chemotherapy drug and a novel immunotherapy, shrinking tumors in mouse models of colon and pancreatic cancer. The therapy silences a gene involved in immunosuppression by blocking Xkr8 protein distribution on the cell membrane.
Researchers identified four partially hidden binding pockets on the SARS-CoV-2 virus's Nsp1 protein that could be targeted with drugs. These pockets are found to halt virus replication and prevent immune system shut-down, providing a promising lead for future coronavirus treatments.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine found a new way to target mantle cell lymphoma by inhibiting the activity of FOXO1 protein, which coordinates gene expression. The discovery could lead to new treatments and improved understanding of how this type of lymphoma develops.
Researchers from Indiana University School of Medicine identified the protein bassoon as a key contributor to tau neurotoxicity in Alzheimer's disease. The study found that bassoon stabilizes the tau seed, allowing it to propagate in the brain and exacerbate neurodegeneration.
A research team developed a vaccine targeting synthetic opioid fentanyl to block its entry into the brain, preventing fatal effects. The breakthrough could have major implications for treating Opioid Use Disorder, with potential relapse prevention capabilities.
Researchers discovered that the Memo1 protein binds copper ions, blocking toxic redox reactions that damage or kill cancer cells. The protein's interaction with copper also protects against metastasis formation in breast cancer cells. This finding opens up potential new treatments for cancer.
Researchers identified Spns2, an S1P transporter, as a novel drug target for Multiple Sclerosis treatment. Targeting this protein may improve safety profiles and reduce side effects associated with current therapies.
Researchers found that MK256 induced differentiation and maturation in leukemia stem cells, inhibiting proliferation of AML cell lines. The study also showed dose-dependent inhibition of the STAT pathway in both in vitro and in vivo studies.
A new study has shown that SGLT-2 inhibitors, a type of diabetes medication, can decrease cardiovascular risk in adults with chronic kidney disease. The meta-analysis included results from 13 major clinical trials and found a 28% lower risk of worsening kidney disease and death from cardiovascular disease.
A new medication, pemafibrate, lowered triglyceride levels among adults with Type 2 diabetes, but did not decrease their cardiovascular risk. The study found that lowering triglyceride levels may not protect against cardiovascular disease in people with Type 2 diabetes.
A new study published in Alzheimer's & Dementia found that telmisartan, a blood pressure medication, is associated with lower risk of Alzheimer's specifically in Black patients over 60. The study analyzed data from over 5 million patients and suggests that future clinical trials should prioritize minority populations to find or reinfor...
Researchers found that rapamycin treatment during developmental growth phase decelerates aging rate and extends lifespan in animals. A transient late-life treatment is not effective, but a transient early-life treatment can reprogram aging.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are awarded a $3.5 million NIH grant to examine how alcohol use alone or in combination with fentanyl affects HIV medications, including PrEP medication. The study aims to determine metabolite signatures and pharmacological biomarkers of PrEP in HIV-negative populations.
A recent analysis of COVID-19-positive donor heart transplants found no significant differences in transplant outcomes compared to those from non-COVID-19 donors. The study's results suggest that COVID-19-positive hearts may be as safe for transplantation, potentially addressing the shortage of available donor organs.
The THERACAT project aims to deliver drugs only to tumor sites using bio-orthogonal catalysis, a promising approach for targeted cancer treatment. Researchers developed nanoparticles bearing metal catalysts to efficiently convert inactive pro-drugs into active drugs at the tumor site.
Researchers found that sapanisertib can kill the malaria parasite at several stages during its life cycle, including in the liver and red blood cells. The study's findings offer new hope against a disease that kills over half a million people annually.
A new study found that Black veterans hospitalized with COVID-19 were less likely to receive evidence-based treatments such as steroids and remdesivir compared to their white counterparts. However, the study also found that disparities in treatment did not translate to higher mortality rates or readmission rates among Black patients.