Two studies published this week have reported new insights into the role of the nervous system in tumors outside of the brain. Researchers at the Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine have identified a role for pain-sensing neurons in helping oral carcinomas cope with nutrient starvation, and that this interaction could be blocked by the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-targeting migraine drug Nurtec ODT (rimegepant; Biohaven Pharmaceutical Holding Co. Ltd.). Read More
An in-depth investigation of the underlying causes of pulmonary symptoms that in some cases persist for months following recovery from the acute stage of COVID-19 has found a distinctive proinflammatory signature in the plasma and airways of affected patients. The research could provide an explanation for the ongoing interstitial lung disease and fibrosis seen in patients who were hospitalized with severe COVID-19, and also point to neutrophils as a specific therapeutic target. Read More
Pfizer Inc. and Biontech SE have initiated a phase I study to evaluate the safety, tolerability and immunogenicity of BNT-162b4, a next-generation COVID-19 vaccine candidate that aims to enhance SARS-CoV-2 T-cell responses and potentially broaden protection against COVID-19. Read More
Nihon Medi-Physics Co. Ltd. has identified antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) comprising a peptide-modified antibody targeting B-lymphocyte antigen CD20 covalently linked to a radionuclide-chelating agent through a linker reported to be useful for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Read More
Investigators at the University of Copenhagen and affiliated organizations presented data from a study that aimed to validate differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (mTLE) as potential new targets. Read More
Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp. has disclosed plasma kallikrein (KLKB1) inhibitors reported to be useful for the treatment of hereditary angioedema, diabetic macular edema, retinal vein occlusion, wet macular degeneration (exudative) and uveitis. Read More
Emory University and Medical College of Wisconsin have presented quinazolinone derivatives acting as NADPH oxidase (NOX) inhibitors reported to be useful for the treatment of traumatic brain injury and epilepsy. Read More
Sunshine Biopharma Inc. has entered into a collaboration agreement with a leading lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation company to advance the development of Sunshine's mRNA-based anticancer macromolecule, K1.1. Read More
Yuhan Corp. has patented membrane primary amine oxidase (AOC3) inhibitors reported to be useful for the treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Read More
