MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL

Researchers developed an algorithm to assess how well Alzheimer's disease models mimic patient brain function and gene expression, identifying shared pathways crucial for drug discovery. The 'Alzheimer's in a dish' model, which accelerates drug testing, was confirmed to accurately reflect human brain changes, enabling rapid and scalable drug testing.

HIV research has transformed the infection from a death sentence into a manageable chronic condition, affecting 1.2 million people in the U.S. and nearly 40 million worldwide. Key advancements include antiretroviral therapy (ART) and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), with ongoing efforts focused on developing a vaccine. Insights from HIV research have also significantly influenced the development of COVID-19 vaccines and treatments for other diseases.

A new algorithm confirms that 3D models using mature brain cells accurately mimic human brain biology, enabling rapid and accurate drug testing for Alzheimer’s disease, identifying 83 dysregulated pathways and highlighting potential drug targets.

Abemaciclib, a CDK4/6 inhibitor, showed improved PFS6 in recurrent/progressive high-grade meningioma patients, with 54% PFS6 in the first 24 evaluable patients compared to historical 15%. No objective responses were observed, but two-thirds had stable disease. Biomarker analysis indicated better outcomes for patients with NF2 alterations. The study suggests further evaluation of abemaciclib in meningiomas is warranted.

CytoDyn appoints Richard Pestell, M.D., Ph.D., as Lead Consultant in Oncology to advance leronlimab's clinical development in cancer treatment.

Despite access to obesity drugs like Wegovy, some patients, like Danielle Griffin, find they don't lose weight. Experts estimate 20% of patients may not respond well to these medications due to genetic, hormonal, and brain regulation variability. Alternative treatments and lifestyle changes are suggested for non-responders.

Harvard's eight newest Rhodes Scholars, representing diverse disciplines and countries, will pursue academic studies at Oxford University. Matthew Anzarouth focuses on Canadian federalism and multiculturalism; Lena Ashooh studies animal ethics; Shahmir Aziz aims to foster biotech startups in Pakistan; Tommy Barone investigates democratic beliefs; Sofia Corona works on sustainable transportation; Aneesh Muppidi explores AI ethics; Ayush Noori researches neuroscience and AI for neurological diseases; Laura Wegner co-founded a healthcare startup to improve patient data management.