University of Oxford

Artificial intelligence (AI) shows promise in enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of endoscopic assessments in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) clinical trials. AI technologies can improve patient recruitment, endoscopy quality, and the assessment of mucosal healing, potentially transforming IBD clinical trial paradigms. Despite its potential, challenges such as dataset bias and the need for high-quality, diverse training data remain.

The article updates guidelines for managing hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes, emphasizing a holistic approach including weight management, physical activity, and social determinants of health. It highlights the benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists for cardiorenal protection, advocating for personalized, person-centered care and the importance of diabetes self-management education and support.

The COVID-19 Antivirals and Therapeutics Taskforce closed on 31 March 2023, aligning with the government's strategy to live with COVID-19. Clinical trials, including phases 1, 2, and 3, are crucial for discovering effective treatments. The UK has established clinical trial platforms like AGILE, RECOVERY, REMAP-CAP, PRINCIPLE, PROTECT-V, HEAL-COVID, STIMULATE-ICP, and PANORAMIC to test and implement COVID-19 treatments. These trials aim to improve patient outcomes, reduce hospital admissions, and enhance recovery, with some treatments already proven effective and integrated into NHS care.

Omega-3 and B vitamins may synergistically prevent dementia. Omega-3, especially DHA, supports brain health, while B vitamins lower homocysteine, reducing Alzheimer's risk. Studies suggest their combined intake enhances cognitive protection, emphasizing the importance of diet in dementia prevention.

An aggressive HIV variant, VB, has been spreading in the Netherlands since the 1990s, progressing to AIDS faster if untreated. Identified in over 100 cases, it responds to standard HIV drugs. The discovery highlights viruses can evolve to be more lethal, contrary to assumptions they become benign over time.

Mattias Rantalainen leads the Predictive Medicine group at Karolinska Institutet, focusing on AI, machine learning, and big data in medical research, particularly computational pathology. His work aims to improve cancer precision medicine through predictive modeling and patient stratification, supported by various grants and collaborations.

Evotec and Exscientia used AI to develop an anticancer molecule in 8 months, a process traditionally taking 4-5 years. Exscientia's AI platform accelerates drug discovery, leading to partnerships and significant funding. AI's role in drug discovery is expanding, with companies like Recursion and BenevolentAI leveraging AI for innovative treatments and collaborations with pharma giants.

The study explores funding challenges for phase III clinical trials in drug repurposing, highlighting the high costs and risks despite lower expenses than new drug development. It discusses traditional grant funding, crowdfunding, public-private partnerships, and social impact bonds as potential solutions. The need for enhanced European collaboration and innovative trial designs is emphasized, alongside the impact of COVID-19 on accelerating repurposing research.

Colchicine, a gout treatment, is being tested in the RECOVERY trial for COVID-19 due to its anti-inflammatory effects. The trial, led by Oxford University, aims to determine if colchicine can reduce death risk in hospitalized patients. It's part of the world's largest COVID-19 treatment trial, which previously found dexamethasone effective for severe cases.

Prof Ruth Itzhaki links HSV1, responsible for cold sores, to dementia in a review published in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience. The review cites correlative studies but lacks clear evidence of causation, according to Dr David Reynolds. Research on HSV1 and Alzheimer's is limited, with no proof of contagion or increased dementia risk from cold sores. The immune system's role in Alzheimer's, particularly inflammation, is highlighted as a key area for further study.