JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY

Despite evidence that genetic testing for prostate cancer improves clinical management, uptake remains low. Genetic testing identifies mutations in DNA repair genes like BRCA2, aiding personalized medicine and treatment decisions. Low testing rates impact eligibility for PARP inhibitors. Barriers include lack of genetic counselors, physician knowledge, and patient concerns. Studies show web-based tools and clinician-led counseling can increase testing rates. Timely testing is crucial for better outcomes, as HRR mutations correlate with worse prognosis. Genetic testing also influences prostate cancer grade classification and screening strategies, particularly for BRCA2 mutation carriers.

Strategies for improving Ebola virus disease post-exposure prophylaxis, origin of SARS-CoV-2 linked to Wuhan market, 'scoop and run' best for nerve agent mass casualty events, T cell memory from seasonal flu may offer pre-existing immunity to H5N1.

Focus on Lyme and Aces Diagnostics Inc. announced a breakthrough Lyme disease diagnostic test, LymeSeek™, with over 90% accuracy across all stages, including early detection. Developed with Tulane University, it aims to reduce misdiagnoses and chronic illness, targeting FDA clearance by 2026.

Transport-based morphometry (TBM) uses advanced imaging to detect autism-related genetic markers with up to 89-95% accuracy, potentially enabling earlier diagnoses and personalized treatment plans. This shift from behavioral observations to genetics and brain structure could revolutionize autism care, fostering cognitive resilience and breaking stigma through science.

Analysis of WHO-recognized registries revealed discrepancies in search methodologies and incomplete records, particularly regarding trials in India. Some registries lacked 'Country of recruitment' fields, and WHO guidelines on record deletion and audit trails were not consistently followed. Efforts to improve registry consistency and accuracy are crucial for future meta-research.

Adjuvant nivolumab after neoadjuvant nivolumab plus chemotherapy and surgery may reduce disease recurrence or mortality risk in resectable NSCLC, according to CheckMate 77T and CheckMate 816 trial data. Perioperative nivolumab showed improved event-free survival compared to neoadjuvant nivolumab plus chemotherapy alone, with greater benefit in patients with PD-L1 < 1%.

FDA meeting on PTSD treatments reignited debate over delayed approval of Lykos Therapeutics' MDMA-assisted therapy. Critics, including Dr. Robert M. Grant, argue FDA's review failed, citing inconsistent guidance and unmet needs for better PTSD treatments. Despite FDA's cautious approach, veterans and researchers advocate for urgent action, highlighting the growing disconnect between FDA's stance and the insistent needs of potential beneficiaries. MAPS plans to continue Phase 3 trials and educate healthcare providers and policymakers, aiming to provide access to treatments regardless of FDA requirements.

The Global Exosome Market: Size, Forecast, Trials, and Trends, 2024 report details the growing exosome market, highlighting advancements in diagnostics, therapeutics, and cosmetics. Exosomes, extracellular vesicles, are valuable for disease detection, diagnosis, and treatment. The market is expanding with 388 clinical trials underway, and first exosome therapeutics expected by 2029. Key players and technologies are profiled, along with market forecasts through 2030.

NIH awarded $7,722,583 to Columbia University for the NEXUS Coordinating Center to organize exposomics research. Led by Gary Miller, Chirag Patel, and Rima Habre, NEXUS aims to operationalize exposomics, integrating it into biomedical research to advance precision environmental health. Funded by five NIH Institutes, NEXUS will establish exposomics frameworks, engage multidisciplinary partners, and support learning opportunities.

Latigo Biotherapeutics appoints Tim Lugo as CFO and adds Beth Seidenberg and Jim Tananbaum to its board, aiming to advance non-opioid pain medicine development.