UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO

A new neuroimaging marker, peak-width of skeletonized mean diffusivity (PSMD), related to cerebral small vessel disease, may identify dementia risk in clinical trials. The study, led by UT Health San Antonio, found PSMD efficiently processes brain images in multi-site dementia studies and is associated with lower general cognition. PSMD's non-invasive, automated, fast, and reliable nature makes it ideal for clinical trial use.

Circular Genomics aims to improve depression treatment with MindLight, using circRNA to predict SSRI response, reducing trial-and-error. MindLight's clinical trials show 77% success in predicting SSRI response, with results in 3-5 days. Future versions will include multiclass antidepressant-response tests by 2026.

Laura Finzi, a molecular biophysicist, has been appointed the inaugural Dr. Waenard L. Miller, Jr. ’69 and Sheila M. Miller Endowed Chair in Medical Biophysics at Clemson University. Her research focuses on DNA transcription mechanics, aiming to advance precision medicine. Finzi holds a joint appointment with the Department of Physics and Astronomy and the Department of Bioengineering.

Sabrina Samudio-Ruiz, PhD, begins role as Shared Resources Associate Director at UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center, overseeing eight shared resources providing advanced technologies for research, including next-generation gene sequencing and sophisticated microscopes.

Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) are accumulating in human organs, with higher concentrations in brain tissue. Studies suggest potential links to Alzheimer’s, colorectal cancer, and infertility, but clear evidence is lacking. Researchers are exploring routes of exposure and health risks, with clinical laboratories potentially developing tests for MNP levels.