It is hardly news that tumor cells, compared to healthy ones, show metabolic reprogramming that accelerates the production of energy and biosynthetic precursors to support rapid growth. What is newly discovered, in contrast, is the possibility that hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumors that are resistant to systemic therapies show further metabolic reprogramming beyond cells that are therapy sensitive, leading them to produce and store even greater amounts of energy.

Bayer AG and Kumquat Biosciences Inc. have entered into an exclusive global license and collaboration agreement to develop and commercialize Kumquat’s KRAS G12D inhibitor.

CLN3 disease, also known as juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, is a rare neurodegenerative disorder affecting neuronopathic lysosomal storage that severely impacts the central nervous system while also inducing notable peripheral neuromuscular symptoms. Researchers from Washington University School of Medicine have demonstrated the potential of gene therapy for CLN3 disease.

Jocasta Neuroscience Inc. has raised $35 million in a series A financing to advance its lead asset, JN-0413, a proprietary formulation of the longevity protein α-Klotho, through phase I development. The company is targeting an IND submission for the fourth quarter of next year.

The largest genome-wide association study to date of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome has identified eight genetic loci that are significantly associated with the chronic debilitating condition. Onset of ME/CFS often is traced back to an infection and four of the loci involve genes that are expressed in response to viral or bacterial infections.