Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is a recognized risk factor that is now regarded as a prerequisite for the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). Recently, significant advances have been made in clarifying the precise mechanism by which EBV leads to the pathogenic features of MS. Now, a new study may have tied up more loose ends. Researchers from the University of Helsinki have mapped the immune landscape of deep cervical lymph nodes (dCLN) in patients recently diagnosed with MS.

Pepgen Inc. seems to have gained a leg up on competitors in early data with PGN-EDODM1 in myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1), and shares of the Boston-based firm (NASDAQ:PEPG) closed Feb. 24 at $2.29, up 92 cents, or about 67%. The company unveiled initial positive data from the 5- and 10-mg/kg dose cohorts in the ongoing Freedom-DM1 phase I study with PGN-EDODM1, which deploys Boston-based Pepgen’s Enhanced Delivery Oligonucleotide technology to deliver a therapeutic oligonucleotide that is designed to restore the normal function of MBNL1, a key RNA splicing protein.

Researchers from New York University and affiliated organizations have detailed data for C-2230, a Cav2.2 channel blocker being developed for the treatment of pain.

EG 427 SAS has closed a €27 million (US$28.3 million) series B round, which will fund it to completion of the first clinical trial of the lead gene therapy program, opening the way for its herpes simplex viral-vectored products to be developed in a range of chronic neuro-urology disorders.

The first patenting from Theta Neurotech Inc. sees the company’s co-founders describe their development of a wearable earpiece that uses an electroencephalography technology and machine learning algorithms to alert epilepsy patients 30 to 60 minutes before they have a seizure.

China’s National Health Commission is designating a three-year period from 2025 to 2027 as the “years of pediatric and mental health services,” in line with a new pledge to achieve eight initiatives in the health care sector aimed at servicing underserved populations.

The phase IIb study results of Supernus Pharmaceuticals Inc.’s SPN-820 in treatment-resistant depression had pulled the company’s stock (NASDAQ:SUPN) down 15.6% on Feb. 19. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of adults failed to show a statistically significant improvement on the primary endpoint of change from baseline on the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression rating scale. Shares closed at $33.52 apiece on Feb. 19.

Med-tech companies focusing on cardiovascular diseases or neurological conditions, women’s health or robotic surgery, will find European investors willing to deploy capital into their stories. European venture capital firms are excited about the continuing innovation and opportunities in the sector.