UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA

Mark Lee and Michael Kuhns, PhD, at the University of Arizona Health Sciences, use nature as a blueprint to develop advanced molecular and immunological therapies. They focus on improving CAR T cell therapy, creating a five-module chimeric antigen receptor (5M-CAR) to treat Type 1 diabetes, and exploring the role of CD4 in T cell signaling. Their work aims to harness the immune system to cure diseases, including cancer, infectious diseases, and autoimmune disorders.

Dr. Chris Apfel discusses his journey into cancer research, the SAGE Oncotest for personalized cancer treatment, the importance of integrative oncology, and promising innovations in cancer care, emphasizing the need for patient advocacy and proactive healthcare choices.

The groundbreaking for the Center for Advanced Molecular and Immunological Therapies (CAMI) in Phoenix was a successful event attended by 300 guests, including officials and donors. The new facility, set to be completed in 2027, will include advanced research labs, clinical spaces, and meeting facilities, aiming to transform health care innovation in Arizona. CAMI's mission is to leverage the University of Arizona's research to advance immunotherapies and create new companies focused on immunological-based disease treatments.

UArizona researchers, funded by a $3M DoD grant, develop a handheld device using 40-second magnetic pulses to target the overactive default mode network (DMN) in the brain, aiming to treat chronic insomnia, particularly among military personnel. Preliminary studies show promise, with a three-year study involving 120 participants planned. This non-drug, noninvasive method could offer a drug-free treatment option for chronic insomnia.

Science cafés, popular since their inception in France and the UK over 25 years ago, aim to make science accessible through relaxed public interactions. These events, often free, feature brief expert talks followed by Q&A sessions, with topics chosen based on community feedback. NIEHS-funded centers at the University of Arizona, Cincinnati, and Iowa have created such cafés to engage communities, share research, and address local environmental health concerns.

23 carbon storage projects shortlisted for $518 million DOE support, aiming to store 50 million tons of CO2 annually. Key projects include West Virginia's $44 million hub and North Dakota's Project Tundra with $49 million.

Various projects aim to assess and establish the feasibility of commercial large-scale CO₂ storage complexes across the U.S., focusing on geological analysis, risk assessment, and community engagement to store over 50 million metric tons of CO₂.

Families in Tucson, Arizona, can meet scientists researching brain health at the University of Arizona, where students connect with seniors for a national aging study. The Precision Aging Network (PAN) hosts the annual Feast for your Brain, inviting locals to join the 'Healthy Minds for Life' study. PAN aims to identify factors that contribute to mental sharpness in older adults. Additionally, the University of Arizona and Banner Health collaborate on the 'All of Us' program, studying health markers in babies up to 4 years old.

The UAE's 2028 mission to the asteroid belt, launching the 'Mohammed Bin Rashid Explorer' via Mitsubishi Heavy Industries' H3 rocket, aims to explore six asteroids and land on Justitia. This 13-year journey, involving international and national partners, signifies a strategic enhancement of the UAE's global space sector position.