Researchers have uncovered a surprising molecular chain reaction in the brain that may play a role in some forms of autism. The study suggests that nitric oxide, a tiny signaling molecule normally involved in fine-tuning communication between brain cells, can sometimes trigger a cascade of changes inside neurons. When nitric oxide activity rises, it can alter a protective protein called TSC2, weak
A federal advisory committee on autism issues has canceled plans for its first public meeting since new members were appointed earlier this year.
Scientists studying 1,300 golden retrievers have uncovered genetic clues explaining why some dogs are more anxious, energetic, or aggressive than others. Remarkably, several of the same genes linked to canine behavior are also tied to human traits like anxiety, depression, and intelligence. The discovery suggests dogs and humans share biological roots for emotions and behavior. Understanding these
Mayo Clinic researchers have identified a rare mutation in the MET gene that can directly cause metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. The mutation disrupts the liver’s ability to process fat, leading to inflammation, scarring, and potentially cirrhosis. The discovery began with a father and daughter who had the disease without typical risk factors. Large-scale genomic data sugg
A newly identified protein may hold the key to preventing diabetic blindness. Researchers discovered that LRG1 triggers the earliest damage in diabetic retinopathy by constricting tiny retinal blood vessels and reducing oxygen supply. In mice, shutting down this protein stopped the damage before it could take hold. The finding could pave the way for treatments that protect vision before symptoms e
A mysterious form of plague that spread across Eurasia thousands of years before the Black Death has finally revealed a crucial clue. Scientists analyzing ancient DNA discovered the bacterium Yersinia pestis in a 4,000-year-old domesticated sheep from a Bronze Age settlement in the Ural Mountains—the first time the pathogen has ever been found in a non-human host from that era. Because this early
Prasad has been involved in several controversial decisions related to rare disease treatments.
Researchers have discovered a new way to increase a key brain protein damaged in Rett syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects thousands of children worldwide. Early studies in mice and patient-derived cells show the approach can restore normal brain cell function, raising hopes for future therapies.
Generic versions of Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Ozempic medications could be mass produced for about $3 per person a month, according to a new analysis.
After a tumultuous tenure marked by recent clashes with the biopharma industry, Vinay Prasad, M.D., will be departing his post as the FDA’s top regulator of vaccines and cell and gene therapies at the end of April, an agency spokesperson confirmed to Fierce Biotech.
From new hires to departures, promotions and transfers, here are the latest comings and goings in the pharmaceutical industry.
Recent decisions at the FDA threaten to turn its disagreements with the drugmaker UniQure into another political headache for the Trump administration.
Under the deal with Lone Star Funds, Lonza maintains a 40% stake in its capsules and health ingredients business while receiving 1.7 billion Swiss francs ($2.2 billion) upfront.
CBD and CBG, two non-intoxicating cannabis compounds, may help combat fatty liver disease by boosting liver energy reserves and restoring cellular cleanup systems. In the study, both compounds improved blood sugar control and reduced harmful lipids linked to fatty liver disease. Researchers say the findings point to a promising new plant-based approach to treating metabolic liver disorders.
Moderna's long-term strategy, an FDA fast-track for Janssen, and other biotech news from The Readout
Servier said it would buy Day One Biopharmaceuticals, the maker of a drug for childhood brain tumors, in a deal worth roughly $2.5 billion.
Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon is going straight to drugmakers in search of details on their "most favored nation" pricing deals with Donald Trump.
China has approved a new obesity treatment from Pfizer, heightening competition in a market poised to become even more crowded
Sanofi has agreed to sell its Medley generics unit in Brazil to leading local drugmaker EMS, according to an announcement from international law firm Mayer Brown. An EMS exec said the deal is valued at more than $500 million, according to Reuters.
The DOJ's fight against gender-affirming care, the impact of Trump's 'Don't take Tylenol,' and more health news