Since its emergence in late 2019, SARS-CoV-2 has killed nearly 7 million people. But at the same time, many infections, in particular in children and young adults, are asymptomatic with rapid viral clearance from the body. It remains unclear why many individuals are able to successfully clear infection without major complications while others develop severe disease, even without known risk factors for severe COVID-19 outcomes.

Now, a new study involving nearly 30,000 individuals has found that variation in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) loci may underlie processes mediating asymptomatic infection. The findings were reported in the July 19, 2023, online edition of Nature.

Mabwell (Shanghai) Bioscience Co. Ltd. has received clearance by China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for its clinical trial application for 9MW-2921 for advanced solid tumors.

Sigma nonopioid intracellular receptor 1 (SIGMAR1) is a protein enriched in motor neurons (MNs), and mutations in its gene have been previously linked to various motor neuron diseases (MNDs). Researchers from Welab Barcelona and affiliated organizations recently presented preclinical data for two novel SIGMAR ligands, EST-79232 and EST-79376, being evaluated as potential candidates for the prevention of MN degeneration.

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen, Karolinska Institutet and affiliated organizations have reported the discovery of a novel gene therapy delivered through a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) conduit as new treatment strategy for hearing loss.

Orion Biotechnology Canada Ltd. has discovered a first-in-class molecule against CXCR6, an undrugged small-protein G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR).