University of Oxford

Blood tests for Alzheimer’s could provide easier, faster diagnosis, paving the way for earlier intervention and treatment. Several tests are under development, with some showing accuracy similar to cerebrospinal fluid tests. FDA approval for such tests is expected within the next 12 months, potentially leading to earlier detection and more effective treatments.

ITIF convened a symposium on assessing financial returns from biopharmaceutical clinical development, discussing investor behavior, drug development evolution, and policy implications. The symposium highlighted the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on investment patterns, particularly in early-stage biopharmaceutical companies, and the challenges posed by price controls. ITIF announced a grant program awarding $50,000 each to three researchers to support better evidence on drug development returns, with submissions considered for publication in 'Health Affairs Scholar'.

The MENA Regional Hub aims to expand research capacity, equity, and leadership in health research across the Middle East and North Africa, fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration. Launched at Canadian University Dubai, the event featured a high-level panel discussion on building resilient public health systems, emphasizing cross-sectoral collaboration. Technical sessions covered public health research priorities and the strategic direction of the MENA Hub, which will support capacity-building and knowledge dissemination.

Microsoft announces collaborations with Italian organizations leveraging Generative AI, including Brembo, Campari, Ferrero, iGenius, Roma Capitale, and Ospedale San Raffaele. CEO Satya Nadella highlights AI's role in boosting productivity and competitiveness, with Italy set to benefit from a €4.3 billion investment in AI infrastructure and skills training. AI adoption is projected to increase Italy's GDP by €312 billion over 15 years, with significant productivity gains reported by Italian companies.

Dr. Silvia Formenti and Dr. Massimo Loda, both chairs at Weill Cornell Medicine, were elected to the National Academy of Medicine for their significant contributions to advancing medical sciences. Formenti pioneered the combination of radiation therapy with immunotherapy, while Loda's work illuminated prostate cancer's metabolic mechanisms, leading to targeted treatments.

Dr. Silvia Formenti and Dr. Massimo Loda, both at Weill Cornell Medicine, were elected to the National Academy of Medicine for their significant contributions to advancing medical sciences, health care, and public health. Formenti, a leader in radiation oncology and breast cancer research, pioneered combining radiation and immunotherapy, while Loda's work in molecular pathology highlighted prostate cancer metabolism, leading to targeted therapies.

Weight-loss drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic are changing the world in unexpected ways, influencing fashion, Hollywood, social lives, the weight-loss industry, food industry, gyms, and even airlines, while also raising questions about mental health and body positivity.

Pfizer CEO Dr. Albert Bourla's bold bet on a Covid-19 vaccine paid off, making Pfizer a household name and generating billions in sales. However, Pfizer's stock price has since dropped due to miscalculated vaccine demand and underperforming post-pandemic goals. Activist investor Starboard Value has taken a $1 billion stake in Pfizer, criticizing Bourla's leadership. Despite this, Bourla enjoys support from Pfizer's board and has implemented cost-cutting measures and reorganization efforts. Pfizer's post-pandemic slump, miscalculated demand, and underperforming new drug launches have led to a significant drop in stock value. Starboard's campaign against Bourla has become personal, accusing Pfizer of pressuring former executives to support Bourla. Bourla's ambitious goals and risks during the pandemic have been both praised and criticized, with some acquisitions yet to yield results.

Hinchingbrooke Hospital's Special Care Baby Unit joined the NeoGASTRIC trial, aiming to understand feeding methods for premature babies. The study, running in the UK and Australia, seeks to determine if measuring gastric residual volumes affects feeding progress. Funded by NIHR and coordinated by NPEU CTU at Oxford University, it aims to recruit over 7,000 babies by 2026.

German health ministry expects EU approval for AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine on Friday. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen discussed contractual arrangements with AstraZeneca's CEO after the company informed the EU of delayed vaccine shipments. The vaccine, developed with the University of Oxford, is estimated to be 62% effective.