Type 1 diabetes: new stem cell treatments
Positive results for a technique tested on 26 patients by a team of international researchers. The cells differentiate in six months and produce insulin.
A cure for astronauts’ eyes
Successfully tested a sleeping bag that returns fluids to the feet in absence of gravity, preventing them from accumulating in the skull and damaging eyes.
A molecule that illuminates ovarian cancer
US health authorities have given the ok to Pafolacianine, a drug that binds to a protein found in ovarian cancer cells and allows surgeons to identify them
A new pain-relief strategy from Arizona
A molecule (currently known as 194) has been identified that seems to be as powerful as opiates, but without the negative effects ( non-addictive).
Two new strategies to fight Alzheimer’s disease
Two new trials to fight Alzheimer have produced successful results. These are a vaccine and a soluble form of beta amyloid protein typical of Alzheimer’s.
New molecules regenerate nerve fibres
Breakthrough results have been achieved in the USA. It is still early days for using on spinal injuries, but it seems to offer promising research potential
ALS, a new technique to block the wrong DNA
A therapy that can prevent DNA from copying genetic traits that may lead to hereditary forms of ALS has been successfully tested (so far only in the lab).
Is sleep really only good for the brain?
New studies reveal that even living beings with no nervous system need to sleep. Other parts of the body are affected like immune and digestive systems.
A 'liquid' vest to measure breath
Researchers have created a high-tech fabric that can detect slightest vibration. It will be useful for athletes, singers, and patients in rehabilitation.
‘Friendly’ viruses to defeat the most dangerous bacteria
A recent study has reproposed the idea of using ‘phages’- viruses that are harmless to humans but often lethal for bacteria – instead of antibiotics.
A vaccine ingredient (in short supply) from Chile
The bark of the Quillaja Saponaria tree contains saponins used as ‘adjuvants’ in the Covid vaccines by Novavax. However, excess demand may cause problems.
Will DNA mapping be the future for all newborns?
This UK pilot project involves 200,000 children. Its aim is early-stage diagnosis of rare genetic disease. There are some controversial issues to resolve.
In the wake of COVID, a Hepatitis C vaccine is on the horizon
An American team has discovered how the hepatitis virus enters the liver: it resembles the approach used by COVID-19. Now a vaccine is possible.
A surprising fact: fires ‘fertilise’ oceans
An international team studied the effects of Australia’s bushfires. Ash released into the air by burning trees becomes food for phytoplankton on the sea.
New DNA-based Covid vaccines
An Indian pharmaceutical company has been given the go-ahead to market a COVID DNA vaccine, which may pave the way for an entirely new category of vaccines
Arthrosis, cells from the nose to treat knees
A successful experiment at Basel hospital on two young patients with a serious form of arthrosis. Cells from the nasal septum were implanted in the knee.
Immunotherapy: testing to see if it works in advance
Some patients gain no benefit from cancer therapies, for reasons as yet unknown. US researchers have identified a marker to avoid unnecessary treatments.
Personalised oncological treatment with a special ‘sandwich’
A new device allows simulation of the effect of oncological treatment for various types of cancers and selection of the most effective for each patient.