THE UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY

Engineered "Invisible" Brain Cells Reverse Parkinson's Symptoms in Preclinical Study

a month ago

• Australian researchers have developed human brain cells with an "invisibility cloak" that evades immune detection, successfully restoring muscle function in rat models of Parkinson's disease without requiring immunosuppressant drugs. • The engineered cells contain eight modified genes that mimic natural immune evasion mechanisms found in placenta and cancer cells, creating a potential "universal" cell line for transplantation across multiple neurological conditions. • This breakthrough could eliminate the need for anti-rejection medications that increase infection risk and cause tissue damage, representing a significant advancement toward off-the-shelf cell therapies for conditions including Parkinson's, stroke, and Huntington's disease.

Conatumumab Shows Promise in Treating Peripheral Artery Disease by Promoting Angiogenesis

7 months ago

• A preclinical study indicates that Conatumumab, a cancer drug, can effectively treat peripheral artery disease (PAD) by promoting the growth of new blood vessels. • The study demonstrated that Conatumumab can bypass arterial blockages and restore blood flow in affected limbs, offering a potential limb-saving treatment. • Researchers observed the drug's efficacy in preclinical models and in vitro, using cells and arteries from PAD patients who underwent amputation. • Given the existing safety profile of Conatumumab from its use in cancer treatment, human trials could potentially proceed rapidly.