University Of Birmingham

A report highlights lack of support for dementia carers, with 37% receiving no help since diagnosis. A £20m initiative to boost dementia clinical trials is launched, aiming to fast-track new treatments. Despite a new Alzheimer's drug being approved, NICE rejected it for NHS use due to cost concerns.

The global organoids market was valued at USD 544.81 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 2.07 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 23.11%. Organoids, derived from stem cells, mimic organ characteristics and are crucial in studying diseases. They are increasingly integrated with organ-on-chip systems and microfluidic technologies, enhancing drug testing and personalized medicine. Key growth drivers include advancements in drug discovery and development, while challenges like batch variability in organoid matrices hinder progress. Opportunities arise from advancements in stem cell technology, and North America dominates the market, with Asia Pacific showing the fastest growth.

Resilience, a £4.5m initiative, aims to address the UK medicines manufacturing industry's skills shortage using VR training, targeting 150 schools, colleges, and FE centres. It supports the NHS's net-zero goal and includes partnerships with universities and industry.

PFAS 'forever chemicals' found in tap and bottled water globally; boiling or carbon filtering reduces PFAS levels by 50-90%.

£4.5m initiative launched to address UK medicines manufacturing skills shortage, using VR for training in digital tech, AI, data analysis, and sustainability.

Clinical trial reporting rates have improved, with 83.4% of EU trials and 77.4% of US trials meeting deadlines, though compliance varies by country. Efforts to enhance transparency include fines and public pressure, aiming to ensure all trial results are published, regardless of outcome.

Acticor Biotech plans to reposition itself in myocardial infarction treatment, with its share price rising 45% on the Paris Bourse. The company is conducting a Phase 2b study with the University of Birmingham to assess glenzocimab's efficacy and safety in reducing infarct size. A Phase 2 study is also being prepared, aiming to enroll 300 patients in cardiac intensive care units, with results expected in Q4 2026. Patient recruitment for the Phase 2 study could begin in Q1 2025, subject to financing. François Guillet has been appointed as CFO.

ACTICOR BIOTECH updates on LIBERATE (phase 2b) and GLORIA (phase 2) studies evaluating glenzocimab for myocardial infarction treatment, aiming for phase 3 registration by 2027.