University Of California, San Francisco

ISRIB, a small-molecule drug, reverses age-related cognitive decline in mice by interfering with the Integrated Stress Response (ISR), rejuvenating brain cells and cognitive function. Developed by UCSF researchers and licensed to Calico, ISRIB shows promise in enhancing memory and learning without serious side effects.

Immunotherapy shows promise for treating glioblastoma, despite challenges like the blood-brain barrier and tumor immune suppression. Trials explore checkpoint inhibitors, vaccines, oncolytic viruses, and CAR T-cell therapy, aiming to overcome these obstacles and improve patient survival.

The FDA approved the first completely implantable artificial heart, AbioCor, for patients with severe heart issues unsuitable for transplants. It's restricted to 4,000 units annually, targeting end-stage patients. The device extends life by an average of 4.5 months, with some living up to 17 months. It's a 2-pound mechanical heart, requiring patients to be at least 6 feet tall and 170 pounds. Costing around $250,000, its insurance coverage is unclear. The approval aims to encourage further technological refinement.