WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

Moroccan startup Moldiag is producing mpox tests for African countries, addressing the continent's need for local medical supply independence after struggling with COVID-19 testing kits. Moldiag's $5 tests are being sold to several African nations, aiming to provide affordable solutions for mpox testing, which is crucial due to symptoms resembling other diseases.

AI is transforming rehabilitation medicine with wearable sensors and risk prediction algorithms, offering personalized virtual fitness training and automated clinical assessments, though widespread deployment faces economic and privacy challenges.

GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide have expanded uses beyond diabetes and weight loss, potentially treating cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorder. CRISPR drugs Casgevy for sickle cell disease and β-thalassemia entered the market, though uptake is slow due to complex treatment processes. Protein-folding algorithms by Baker, Hassabis, and Jumper revolutionized biochemical research and pharmaceutical applications. ADCs received significant investment, with firms exploring new linker chemistries. Amylyx Pharmaceuticals pulled an ALS drug after trial failure, continuing research for other uses. Kelly Chibale called for recognizing African scientific potential. Virologists monitored H5N1, mpox, and Marburg outbreaks, with ongoing research and emergency measures. Radiopharmaceuticals saw increased investment and market growth. Evidence suggests vaccines like shingles and flu jabs may protect against dementia.

Alex Jacobs experienced TCM moxibustion and Qigong at the 2024 World Conference on Traditional Medicine in Beijing. He praised He Nian's moxibustion skills and the intelligent moxibustion robot showcased at the event. TCM is gaining global recognition, with 196 countries and regions benefiting from its treatments. China has established 30 high-quality overseas TCM centers and signed cooperation agreements with over 40 governments. The WHO has included traditional medicine in the 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases. Jacobs, a TCM doctor, highlighted the popularity of Chinese medicine in the UK and its potential to revolutionize healthcare.

Depression research references cover antidepressant efficacy, SSRI discontinuation challenges, exercise and acupuncture treatments, neuroimaging studies, and the role of reward circuitry in depressive behaviors.

WHO seeks expressions of interest for Regional Biomanufacturing Training Centres under its Workforce Training Initiative, aiming to equip low- and middle-income countries with biomanufacturing skills. Centres will deliver comprehensive courses, utilize innovative pedagogical approaches, provide online training, collaborate with universities and industries, and serve as resource centres. Interested institutions must submit proposals by February 28, 2025, meeting criteria including non-profit status, experience in biomanufacturing training, focus on LMICs, and commitment from relevant ministries.

Talks to finalize a global pandemic agreement at WHO's Geneva headquarters closed without a breakthrough, extending negotiations into 2025. Key issues unresolved include pathogen sharing, surveillance, and technology transfer. Countries urged to approve 'as much as we can' to finalize a negotiation and get a pandemic agreement, even if 'not perfect'.

WHO's Vasee Moorthy calls for systematic reviews to address underrepresentation in clinical trials, noting less than 5% include pregnant women and 13% include children. WHO's new guidance aims to improve trial design and oversight globally.

The Hastings Center announces its 2024 fellows, leaders in bioethics addressing global issues like infectious disease, AI in health, neuroscience, reproductive rights, genetics, and disability.