Kate Therapeutics Inc. recently presented data on a novel muscle- and heart-targeted, liver de-targeted development candidate for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) – KT-809.

A group of scientists from Harvard University have observed and reconstructed the human brain at the resolution of the electron microscope, with all its cells, following all the connections between its neurons around a cubic millimeter of a tissue sample. They took 10 years and the data occupies 1.4 petabytes (1,400 terabytes). However, they are already planning a bigger project.

Alto Neuroscience Inc.’s start this spring of the phase II double-blind, single- and multiple-dose study to test the pharmacodynamics of ALTO-203 in major depressive disorder represents another stake planted in a notoriously difficult indication. But getting attention as well is the push by Los Altos, Calif.-based Alto in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with a separate compound.

As the average cost of new drug R&D continues to skyrocket, the perception around using artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool to boost drug discovery is changing. “Developing new AI-based drugs is a difficult task, not only for Korea but also for countries with leading AI technology,” Hyeyun Jung, principal researcher of Korea Health Industry Development Institute’s Center for Health Industry Policy, told the audience at the Bio Korea meeting on May 9. “But there is a change in perception; [namely that] applying AI to new drug development is not an option but a necessity.”

4M Therapeutics Inc. has announced the presentation of preclinical data on its small-molecule glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) inhibitors in models of bipolar disorder.

AC Immune SA has landed a potential $2.2 billion deal for its anti-amyloid beta Alzheimer’s disease vaccine, ACI-24.060, with Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., under which it will get $100 million up front and is eligible to receive an option exercise fee, plus potential development, commercial and sales-based milestones of up to $2.1 billion.