Columbia University

Scientists fear Trump's administration could undermine public health achievements, with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. potentially leading a radical antiestablishment movement. Vaccine mandates, new vaccine approvals, and FDA decisions could be impacted, along with potential mass firings of dissenting scientists. Kennedy and allies advocate for dramatic public health changes, criticizing government agencies for promoting unhealthy practices and dangerous drugs. The potential for significant changes in federal health agencies, including the NIH and CDC, is concerning to many health professionals.

Lecanemab use in the U.S. and Japan shows ARIA rates similar to trials despite broader patient populations. Japan's ARIA rates are half of the U.S., mirroring Phase 3 trial results. Lecanemab is approved in several countries but rejected by the EMA and Australia. The U.K. restricts use to non-APOE4 homozygotes, and the NHS does not cover costs. Other countries may follow the U.K.'s example. Lecanemab use is growing in Japan but faces hurdles like limited infusion sites and physician numbers.

Brittany Dugger, a UC Davis neuropathology expert, received a $6 million NIH grant to study Alzheimer’s in Hispanic populations. Her research integrates machine learning, citizen science, and precision medicine, aiming to reduce disease disparities and advance treatments. A key project involves a game, Beta Catchers, where players analyze brain tissue images to identify Alzheimer’s pathologies, enhancing data collection and public engagement.

Recent scientific advances in immuno-oncology and autoimmune diseases have led to new treatment possibilities, with companies like Cullinan Therapeutics developing innovative therapies like CLN-978 for systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. This shift in focus aims to address unmet needs and improve patient outcomes through collaborative research and global clinical trials.

Since Leqembi's approval in 2023, neurologists have learned: 1) it takes 5 months on average to start treatment; 2) Black and Hispanic Americans are underrepresented; 3) most U.S. infusions occur in urban centers; 4) Japan treats more patients with fewer ARIA cases; 5) blood tests aren't yet adequate for confirming Alzheimer's biomarkers.

CIIS to offer first B.S. in psychedelic studies in 2025, combining psychology, anthropology, and neuroscience. The program responds to growing demand for psychedelic therapy training, projected to reach $4.6 billion by 2030. CIIS emphasizes ethical integrity and consent in psychedelic therapy, addressing past scandals. The degree is designed for juniors and seniors, focusing on therapeutic uses without hands-on drug experiences.

Moleculin Biotech appoints Dr. Daniel D. Von Hoff to its Annamycin Scientific Advisory Board, recognizing his expertise in pancreatic cancer and his enthusiasm for Annamycin's potential in treating various cancers.

University of Glasgow researchers developed a new malaria drug, targeting PfCLK3 protein, potentially more effective and resistant to resistance, with a single-dose possibility.

Historically, medical research has been male-dominated, leading to gender bias in disease understanding and drug responses. Women experience different symptoms and metabolize drugs differently. Despite progress, such as the NIH's Sex as a Biological Variable initiative, significant gaps remain, particularly in female-exclusive conditions like menopause and endometriosis. Funding inequities and challenges in translating research into practice exacerbate these issues.

John Gorman, a pioneer in treating Rh disease in the 1960s, has been awarded Australia's highest honor, an AC, for his eminent service to humanity. His breakthrough in using anti-D serum, known as RhoGAM, has almost eliminated Rh disease in developed countries, saving countless lives. Gorman's work continues with the World Initiative for Rh disease Eradication, aiming to provide anti-D to Rh-negative mothers globally.