UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS

Finasteride, known for treating hair loss and enlarged prostate, may also lower cholesterol and reduce heart disease risk. Research by Dr. Jaume Amengual and team, based on a national survey and mouse experiments, suggests finasteride's potential to lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation. The drug's effects on hormones like DHT, linked to heart disease, open possibilities for its use in heart health, including for transgender individuals undergoing hormone therapy. However, potential side effects like sexual dysfunction and psychological issues must be considered.

SpaceX's 31st CRS mission for NASA will launch to the ISS on Nov 4, carrying over 24 ISS National Lab-sponsored payloads aiming to advance human health, space debris removal, and biomanufacturing in low Earth orbit.

SMU's Donghai Wang and team developed a hybrid polymer network cathode for Li-S batteries, preventing polysulfide dissolution and achieving over 900 mAh/g capacity, outperforming conventional lithium-ion batteries.

A matching-adjusted meta-analysis presented at the AAO 2024 compared Eylea HD and Vabysmo, revealing Vabysmo provided higher CST reduction in DME and nAMD patients, with CST thinning by 19µm more than Eylea and Eylea HD.

University of Illinois scientists discovered naturally-occurring DNA-protein hybrid molecules, potentially revolutionizing genome editing and precision medicine. These biohybrid molecules combine nucleic and amino acid properties, enabling targeted protein delivery and gene regulation. The discovery, made while searching for metal-binding bacteria, could transform treatment of diseases linked to long non-coding RNA strands. The team plans to commercialize this breakthrough through the Office of Technology Management.

Pharmacist bridges bioinformatics with practical tools, empowering clinicians for patient-specific dosing decisions, aiming to improve patient safety and healthcare outcomes. Her journey began with a passion for science and math, leading to a career blending precision dosing, technology, and patient-centered care. Challenges included advocating for clinical expertise in leadership. Her passion is fueled by reducing medication errors and enhancing patient safety through innovative technology.

Parkinson's disease patients often experience neuropsychiatric symptoms like cognitive issues, depression, and anxiety. A research team, including Binghamton University's Christopher R. Bishop, received a $3 million grant from the Department of Defense to study these symptoms. Their focus is on how serotonin-producing neurons, which can produce dopamine, contribute to these issues. The team aims to improve PD symptom management and has identified potential repurposed medications.

Binghamton University Psychology Professor Christopher R. Bishop leads a $3 million, four-year DOD-funded study on neuropsychiatric symptoms in Parkinson’s disease, involving researchers from Binghamton, Barrow Neurological Institute, and the University of Illinois. The study focuses on serotonin neurons producing dopamine, causing side effects, and aims to improve PD patient lives through new treatments and clinical trials.

Bickel established the International Quit & Recovery Registry at Virginia Tech, aiding scientific understanding of long-term recovery. The registry now includes over 10,000 participants from 60 countries. Bickel also developed the Experimental Tobacco Marketplace to study health behaviors influenced by policy. His legacy includes BEAM Diagnostics, a digital screening tool for behavioral health conditions. Bickel's career was marked by collaboration, mentorship, and numerous awards. Despite a terminal cancer diagnosis, he continued his research, co-authoring studies on addiction until his final months.

Dr. Robb Fraley, former Monsanto CTO, pioneered biotechnology in agriculture, leading to innovations like Roundup Ready crops. His work significantly impacted global food security, earning him prestigious awards. Fraley emphasizes the ongoing potential of biotechnology and gene-editing in agriculture.