NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY

Breakthrough Drug for Feline Heart Disease: Rapamycin Shows Promise in Reversing HCM

3 months ago

• A novel formulation of rapamycin has demonstrated the ability to reverse hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in cats, marking the first successful treatment for this common feline heart condition. • The drug is expected to receive FDA conditional approval in March 2025, with researchers currently conducting a large-scale pivotal study across 20 US sites involving 300 cats. • Led by Dr. Joshua Stern at NC State, the research shows the drug works by inhibiting the mTOR pathway, potentially transforming HCM treatment from symptom management to addressing underlying pathology.

AVMA Veterinary Clinical Trials Registry Highlights New Studies in Canine and Feline Oncology and Neurological Disorders

8 months ago

• The AVMA Veterinary Clinical Trials Registry lists studies for animal health, connecting researchers with veterinarians and owners. • North Carolina State University is exploring a novel treatment approach for oral cancer in cats. • Several studies are investigating canine cancers, including hemangiosarcoma, osteosarcoma, and mast cell tumors, with innovative therapies. • Research is underway to assess treatments for canine cognitive dysfunction and degenerative myelopathy, mirroring human neurological conditions.

Dog Aging Project Seeks Canine Volunteers for Longevity Research

10 months ago

• The Dog Aging Project (DAP) is a five-year study aiming to understand aging in dogs, potentially benefiting human health as well. • Researchers seek diverse canine participants, including large breeds, working dogs, and puppies, to study genetic and environmental factors. • A clinical trial within the DAP investigates rapamycin's effect on canine lifespan and healthspan, building on promising results in mice. • Dog owners can nominate their dogs at DogAgingProject.org, contributing to a large-scale community science effort with global research impact.

One-Week Elderberry Juice Treatment Increases Postprandial Carbohydrate Oxidation

2 years ago

A pilot study found that consuming 100% elderberry juice for one week significantly increased postprandial carbohydrate oxidation in overweight and obese adults, without affecting serum glucose or insulin levels. The study suggests elderberry juice could influence metabolic flexibility, though further research is needed to confirm these findings.