NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH

Clinical trials of new cancer drugs may unfairly exclude people with Duffy-null phenotype, predominantly found in African and Middle Eastern descent, due to lower blood neutrophil levels. This exclusion could lead to less effective drug doses for these individuals. Researchers recommend testing for Duffy-null phenotype in trial screenings and adjusting dose modifications accordingly.

Remedy Pharmaceuticals announced significant improvements in ambulation with Cirara in Phase 3 CHARM trial for large hemispheric infarction, with ORs of 1.8 (p=0.01) in mITT population and 4.1 (p<0.01) in lesion volume <125mL patients, particularly with EVT.

An experimental blood test analyzing 32 proteins could predict severe lung issues like COPD, identifying higher risks for COPD, respiratory death, hospitalization, and treatment-requiring symptoms. Developed from a 30-year study, the test needs clinical trials for FDA approval but shows promise in early risk detection.

The 2024 NIDA International Forum, held in Montreal, featured over 200 attendees from 73 countries, focusing on addiction research, treatment, and policy. Key sessions included updates on NIDA's strategic priorities, discussions on drug policy reforms, medical cannabis education, opioid stigma in pharmacies, and real-world interventions. The event also highlighted international research collaborations and the importance of addressing substance use in humanitarian settings.

A blood test developed by researchers at UC Davis Health and other institutions may predict the risk of severe respiratory conditions, potentially leading to earlier intervention and prevention of serious lung disease. The test, based on a risk score derived from 32 proteins and 30 years of lung health data, identifies adults likely to develop severe respiratory issues, with higher scores indicating increased risk of hospital care, COPD, and respiratory death. The study, published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, suggests early detection could improve lung function and quality of life.

Yale School of Medicine receives $3.5 million NIH grant to join the Undiagnosed Diseases Network as a Diagnostic Center of Excellence, aiming to increase genetic testing and diagnosis for patients with unexplained symptoms, particularly in underserved populations.

NIH-supported team developed a preclinical blood test analyzing 32 proteins to predict severe respiratory conditions like COPD, based on lung health data from 2,470 adults over 30 years. Higher risk scores indicated increased likelihood of hospital care, COPD development, and respiratory disease death. The test, not yet ready for practice, aims to enable earlier interventions for improved lung health.

Molecular profiling of meningiomas can predict treatment response and survival, according to a study in Nature Medicine. Craig Horbinski, MD, PhD, highlights the potential of molecular data to improve clinical outcomes. The study analyzed over 2,800 meningiomas, finding total resection and dural margin treatment beneficial. DNA loss and DNA methylation changes were key determinants of tumor behavior.

Dr. Maria L. Alcaide, a leading physician researcher at the Miller School of Medicine, was inspired by the compassionate care and scientific challenge of HIV during her residency in Miami. She now juggles patient care with clinical research, focusing on HIV and other infectious diseases, and was appointed interim vice provost for research and scholarship at the University. Alcaide aims to improve health outcomes and foster research collaborations and mentoring programs.