CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY

Fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) shows promise in optimizing cancer treatment response, with Cleveland Clinic exploring its use in bladder cancer. Studies link gut microbiome changes to chemotherapy responses, suggesting FMT could enhance immunotherapy outcomes.

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University identified a cholesterol-managing protein, PfNCR1, as a potential target for malaria treatment. A compound, MMV009108, can block PfNCR1, disrupting the parasite's cholesterol control and potentially killing it. This breakthrough could lead to new malaria drugs resistant to parasite adaptation.

UNC researchers, Bryan Roth and Grégory Scherrer, developed a gene therapy using chemogenetics to reduce pain in mouse models. The system, mHCAD, targets peripheral nervous system neurons, reducing pain perception. Delivery via adeno-associated virus could make this therapy a future treatment for chronic pain.

CMS created CPT codes for patient navigation services, allowing providers to bill for them. The American Cancer Society developed a training program for navigators. Karen Knudsen, ACS CEO, celebrated this as a major step forward in improving cancer outcomes before resigning due to board conflicts. Other top stories included election implications for oncology, oncologist struggles with terminal cancer, and GRAIL's multi-cancer detection test.

Case Western Reserve University researchers helped uncover evidence of ritualistic gatherings in Manot Cave, Galilee, Israel, dated to 35,000 years ago. The cave, used by Neanderthals and humans, features a cavern with a turtle-engraved rock possibly used for rituals. Dental students played a crucial role in identifying bone fragments during the excavation.

Case Western Reserve University’s Begun Center partners with Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office to test syringes from needle exchanges, aiming to curb overdose trends and improve public health interventions.

Case Western Reserve study reveals widespread 'peer-brokered' drug sales, challenging traditional drug market views. 71% of surveyed Ohio drug users had brokered transactions in the past month, highlighting social networks' role in drug distribution. The study calls for new strategies to address these networks.

Case Western Reserve University's Begun Center partners with Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office to pilot a program testing syringes from needle exchanges at The Centers and MetroHealth System, aiming to understand drug use behaviors and improve public health interventions. Over 120 syringes tested since fall, providing participants with feedback on substances in their drugs, part of a CDC-funded effort to reduce overdose fatalities.

ASHG welcomed 2024–2026 Human Genetics Scholars, including Amber M. Abram, Kynon J. Benjamin, Razaq Durodoye, Tania Fabo, Gabrielle Ferra, JP Flores, Renée Fonseca, and Esteban Vazquez-Hidalgo, recognized for research and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in human genetics and genomics.

New study in mice using peptide-brush polymers shows promise in treating Huntington's disease by preventing protein clumping and reversing symptoms, though human trials are needed.