Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is used as a marker of activated microglia, and thus a protein that drives inflammation. Patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have shown increased levels of Gal-3 in their cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) compared to healthy controls, as well as increased expression in their brain tissue.
Merck & Co. Inc. has announced plans to initiate clinical development of a new investigational multi-valent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine designed to provide broader protection against multiple HPV types.
The phase II Initium study of Ultimovacs ASA’s therapeutic cancer vaccine in treating unresectable or metastatic malignant melanoma did not meet the primary endpoint. The company framed the loss by saying the UV-1 vaccine still has other indications where it could succeed.
The research on novel vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 with improved characteristics continues. These ideal features include rapid development to target variants of concern, easy manufacturing, and an excellent safety profile while inducing humoral and cellular immune responses.
Neuraminidase (NA) is an essential surface protein of influenza viruses with potential as an effective drug and vaccine target. However, knowledge of the NA antigenic landscape remains limited, and most current influenza vaccines induce antibodies against the surface glycoprotein hemagglutinin.
In a move to widen global access to its Qdenga dengue vaccine, Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. is partnering with India’s Biological E. Ltd. to manufacture Qdenga (TAK-003).
China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) cleared 40 novel innovative drugs in 2023, of which nearly half were cancer therapies, marking a significant increase from the 21 new class 1 drugs approved in 2022.
Imunon Inc. has released promising results from a live virus challenge study conducted by the Wistar Institute with IMNN-101 against the SARS-CoV-2 variant XBB.1.5. This study was conducted using the clinical vector that Imunon intends to bring into its phase I study during the second quarter, and showed IMNN-101 immunogenicity and protective activity in a live viral mouse challenge.
China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) cleared 40 novel innovative drugs in 2023, of which nearly half were cancer therapies, marking a significant increase from the 21 new class 1 drugs approved in 2022.