It was hypothesized that the MEK1/2 inhibitor ATR-002 could reduce inflammation and clear Staphylococcus aureus infection during cystic fibrosis, thus potentially showing a dual effect.

Khalifa University and The University of Queensland presented preclinical data for a novel acid-sensing ion channel 1 (ASIC1) inhibitor, Hi1a, evaluated in models of multiple sclerosis (MS).

The adenosine A1 receptor (A1R) modulates ionic conductance in neuronal membrane and contributes to the anticonvulsant and neuroprotective role of the endogenous neuromodulator adenosine. Because A1Rs are present all throughout the body, the development of A1R modulation as antiseizure strategy may face difficulties such as side effects in the heart or other organs.

Investigators at Wuxi No. 2 Peoples Hospital and affiliated organizations conducted studies to identify novel effective biomarkers for early-stage pediatric respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection (EPR).

The melanocortin MC4 receptor (MC4R), expressed in all brain regions, plays a relevant role in metabolism regulation and in the control of hunger and satiety. MC4R-specific agonist ligands such as setmelanotide have shown potential as antiobesity therapeutics, although reported off-target effects highlight the need for more specific compounds.

Researchers at University of Oxford have been awarded funding by Cancer Research UK to develop a vaccine to prevent ovarian cancer. The team will receive up to £600,000 (US$784,000) for the study over the next 3 years to support lab research on Ovarianvax.

Research into the regulation of gene expression experienced a significant breakthrough with the discovery of microRNA, small RNA molecules that do not code for proteins but control their translation. This finding has earned its discoverers – Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun – the 2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine “for the discovery of microRNA and its role in post-transcriptional gene regulation.”