King's College London

Triptans like eletriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan, and zolmitriptan were more effective at relieving acute migraine pain than newer, costlier drugs, according to a network meta-analysis of nearly 90,000 patients. The analysis evaluated 137 trials and found these triptans superior in efficacy outcomes, suggesting a need to revise existing guidelines.

Scientists developed a 'chiral vortex' light technique to detect molecular chirality, crucial for drug development and disease detection, using a twisted laser beam that interacts with chiral molecules to produce unique light patterns, offering unprecedented sensitivity and resilience.

Semaglutide, branded as Ozempic, is a new diet drug originally developed for type 2 diabetes, now used off-label for obesity, causing weight loss up to 17% in 68 weeks. Popular among celebrities and influencers, it has led to shortages and backlash. Side effects include acid reflux and nausea, and weight regain upon cessation. Despite concerns, it may become more widely approved for obesity treatment.

Moderna's mRNA-4359 vaccine, designed to activate the immune system against cancer cells, shows promising early results in a phase-one trial with 19 advanced solid tumour patients, with 8 showing no tumour growth and no new tumours. The vaccine is well tolerated without serious adverse effects, and the study now focuses on melanoma and non-small-cell lung cancer patients.

Researchers believe psychedelics could treat mental health, with ongoing trials in UK and worldwide. Psilocybin shows most evidence for effectiveness, with potential benefits beyond serious conditions. Despite tight UK control, businesses invest in psychedelic treatments, anticipating global authorization.

The 'Cognitive Testing in Clinical Drug Trials: Successful Test Selection and Integration Training Course' conference explores cognitive assessment in clinical trials, blood-based biomarkers (BBBM) for early Alzheimer's detection, and case studies of successful and failed cognitive tests. It offers insights into cognitive test selection and integration into drug trials, featuring experts John E. Harrison and Alison Green.

American Clinical Research Services acquires Elixia; Oxford BioDynamics collaborates with King's College London post APIPPRA trial; Recursion's BioHive-2 ranks 35 on TOP500 supercomputers list; OM1 launches three AI-powered products; Oracle enhances Clinical One RTSM; Boehringer Ingelheim adopts ArisGlobal's LifeSphere Clarity; OGT introduces SureSeq Myeloid Fusion Panel; Lindus Health debuts All-in-One Diagnostics CRO; CuriMeta and NashBio form data licensing agreement.