NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH

UK researchers highlight the need to reconsider conservative approaches in dementia research by drawing parallels with cancer research, advocating for more aggressive therapies and combination treatments to address Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

Scientists at Gladstone Institutes identified 163 previously untested retrons, finding many that edit DNA more efficiently than current ones, potentially aiding disease research and therapy development.

80% of advanced-phase CML or Philadelphia chromosome-positive AML patients achieved bone marrow remission with decitabine, venetoclax, and ponatinib combination therapy in a Phase II trial, published in The Lancet Haematology.

Children in areas without easy access to full-fledged grocery stores have over 50% higher risk of obesity, according to a study published in JAMA Pediatrics. Lead researcher Izzuddin Aris suggests improving food access in low-income neighborhoods to prevent child obesity.

A bone marrow cancer drug, pomalidomide, was found safe and effective in treating hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), a rare bleeding disorder, according to a clinical trial supported by the NIH. Patients experienced reduced nosebleeds, fewer transfusions, and improved quality of life. The trial was stopped early due to significant positive results, published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

NIH researchers identified RNF114 protein reversing cataracts in 13-lined ground squirrels and rats, suggesting a potential surgery-free cataract treatment. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, highlights the protein's role in maintaining lens clarity and its potential to clear cataracts upon rewarming.

80% of advanced-phase CML or Philadelphia chromosome-positive AML patients achieved bone marrow remission with decitabine, venetoclax, and ponatinib combination therapy, according to a Phase II trial published in The Lancet Haematology.

Oregon State University researchers, with a $1.2 million NIH grant, aim to develop an AI-powered device using saliva for personalized epilepsy treatment, optimizing anti-seizure drug dosing.

Laura Cabrera received a $1.5 million NIH grant to develop a patient-centered decision aid for deep brain stimulation (DBS), aiding in shared decision-making for conditions like Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor. The research aims to address ethical concerns and optimize timing for DBS use, considering patient values and preferences.

Rachel George, in recovery from opioid use disorder (OUD), shares her journey, from starting opioids at 15 to participating in NIDA clinical trials. She emphasizes the importance of support and treatment, encouraging others with OUD not to give up, and highlighting the positive impact of her involvement in addiction research.