University of Oxford

Medication, particularly stimulants and atomoxetine, is more effective for treating adult ADHD than talking therapy and brain stimulation, according to a comprehensive study. The research, involving over 14,800 participants, found stimulants significantly mitigate ADHD symptoms and are well-received by patients, while atomoxetine is also effective but less tolerated. The study highlights the need for more research on long-term treatment outcomes and combined approaches.

Dr. Antonio Ariza, a University Teaching Associate at the University of Sheffield, began his career in biotechnology, later specializing in structural biology. He has worked in various academic and industrial settings, focusing on protein structures and nucleic acid-binding proteins, and now also studies plastic-degrading enzymes.

Immediate surgery reduced local recurrence in elderly breast cancer patients vs deferred surgery, with benefits in distant recurrence and mortality apparent over long follow-up. Tamoxifen with surgery lowered local recurrence rates significantly compared to tamoxifen alone. Immediate surgery had minimal impact on distant recurrence or breast cancer mortality within a year. All-cause mortality rates were slightly lower with surgery plus tamoxifen. The analysis emphasized the importance of long-term follow-up in assessing benefits of local therapy.

The ACHIEVE study, funded by CEPI with $10.3M, aims to estimate chikungunya cases in Kenya and Tanzania, starting spring 2025. Led by Oxford's Centre for Tropical Medicine, it seeks to improve understanding of the disease's burden and inform vaccine development and deployment strategies.

Novavax achieved a $50 million milestone in its partnership with Sanofi, advancing its COVID-19 vaccine in children. Sanofi's combination vaccine candidates, including Novavax's vaccine, have received Fast Track designation and are in Phase 1/2 trials, potentially leading to further milestones and royalties for Novavax.

African populations are underrepresented in genomic research, hindering precision medicine development. Despite challenges like funding and infrastructure, progress is being made in countries like South Africa and Uganda. Initiatives like H3Africa aim to improve genomic diversity and capacity in Africa, but significant barriers remain, including brain drain and lack of government support. Efforts to build infrastructure and knowledge are ongoing, with the hope of expanding access to precision medicine across the continent.

New UK legislation streamlines clinical trial regulations, fostering innovation and faster approvals, aligning with Lord O'Shaughnessy Review recommendations. Amendments focus on participant protection, medicine development, and multi-national trial facilitation. The reforms aim to make the UK a top global research site for safe, groundbreaking trials.

New UK legislation on clinical trial regulations aims to enhance transparency, encourage participation, and align with global diversity and inclusion standards. Experts highlight the importance of efficient, patient-friendly trials for advancing medical care and meeting WHO best practices.

A new gene therapy research centre, jointly funded by the MRC and BHF, aims to develop therapies for heart repair and regeneration in heart attack and heart failure patients. Led by researchers at UK universities, the centre seeks to reawaken regenerative processes in damaged human hearts, potentially transforming heart disease treatment.

Novavax has started a Phase 3 trial for its COVID-19-Influenza Combination vaccine and a stand-alone seasonal influenza vaccine, aiming to evaluate their immunogenicity and safety in adults aged 65 and older. The company is working with the FDA to explore accelerated approval and plans to provide updates by Q2 2025.