Neurocrine cuts Takeda-partnered depression drug, switches focus for seizure therapy after PhII failures

Neurocrine Biosciences is discontinuing two mid-stage developmental programs after their partnered drug candidates for major depressive disorder (MDD) and focal onset seizures (FOS) failed in trials. The partnered drug NBI-1065846 with Takeda did not reduce MDD in patients, while NBI-921352 with Xenon Pharmaceuticals did not demonstrate a significant decrease in seizures. However, Neurocrine is redirecting its focus on market opportunities for NBI-921352 in treating SCN8A developmental and epileptic encephalopathy syndrome.

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What If Psychedelics’ Hallucinations Are Just a Side Effect?

Psychedelics such as psilocybin and MDMA have shown significant antidepressant effects, according to recent studies. A new generation of nonhallucinogenic psychedelics aims to offer the mental health benefits of traditional psychedelics minus the trip. These substances, currently under testing, have the potential to treat mental illnesses without inducing hallucinatory experiences, and likely will be easier to regulate and more accessible for patients. Psychedelics induce neuroplasticity, which could be central to their therapeutic effects.

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zurzuvae: can virtual reality display the arrays of [postpartum] depression?

Sage Therapeutics, in partnership with Biogen, has priced the Postpartum Depression (PPD) pill, Zurzuvae, at $15,900 for a 14-day treatment course. The new pill signifies an advancement in psychiatry where depression is theorized as an array of chemical and electrical impulses in the brain. Further, virtual reality can be used to visualize these conceptual impulse arrays to better understand depression and potential therapies.

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Experiencing Psoriasis Pain? Here’s What Doctors Want You To Know

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition causing rapid skin cell growth, leading to itchy, scaly patches. Its pain can vary greatly, and in around 30 percent of cases, it extends to psoriatic arthritis. The cause of psoriasis and its discomfort is not well-understood but is presumed to result from inflammation that irritates skin nerves. Various strategies can help manage the pain, including moisturizing skin, applying cold compresses, stress management, and using OTC pain relievers. Topical creams, oral medications, and injections are also available for pain management.

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Should I dine indoors this winter?

Due to improved immunity and the availability of vaccines and treatments, Covid restrictions are less stringent. While infection rates in NYC have decreased, epidemiologists recommend considering personal risk factors and comfort levels with Covid before resuming activities like indoor dining. Additionally, observing lower-traffic times at restaurants and scrutinizing ventilation could make dining safer. Nevertheless, a “zero risk” scenario remains unfeasible.

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How Dogs Help Us Lead Longer, Healthier Lives

Having a dog promotes health benefits including fewer doctor visits, better sleep, and less reliance on heart medications, according to several studies. The presence of a dog alters the home’s bacteria composition, possibly supporting the human immune system, reducing risk for allergies and asthma. Dogs also provide a source of companionship and support, aiding chronic pain management and boosting mood. Pet ownership is associated with lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and stress levels, ultimately contributing to decreased risk of cardiovascular disease and better survival rates post heart attacks.

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Kindness is (weight loss) medicine

Weight bias among healthcare providers can discourage patients from seeking medical assistance and impact their mental wellbeing. Clinicians’ tone and attitude while discussing weight significantly affect patient outcomes. Studies show that doctors who approach weight issues optimistically inspire more success in weight loss programs. Therefore, physicians should share decision-making regarding weight with patients, showing empathy and taking into account a patient’s willingness to lose weight.

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What If Men Could Make Their Own Egg Cells?

Scientists like Japanese biologist Katsuhiko Hayashi and CEO of Conception Biosciences Matt Krisiloff are investigating the possibility of creating human eggs from skin cells in the next decade. This could allow older women to have biological children, and male couples to have biological children without any other genetic contributors. The technology, known as in vitro gametogenesis (IVG), could fundamentally redefine the concept of parenthood. However, it faces severe scientific, ethical, and cultural challenges.

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Tonix halts major depression disorder drug after phase 2 failure

Tonix Pharmaceuticals has discontinued a major depression disorder therapy, TNX-601 ER, after it failed in phase 2 trials. The company now plans to focus on its CNS pipeline and reduce efforts on a COVID vaccine and other preclinical projects. Additionally, Tonix will look into the findings from chronic migraine and fibromyalgia studies due in the following month.

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Genetic heritage of the Denisovans may have left its mark on our mental health

Researchers from the Institute of Evolutionary Biology and Pompeu Fabra University have discovered the most prevalent Denisovan genetic contribution in modern humans, affecting zinc regulation. This genetic mutation likely provided an evolutionary advantage for adapting to cold climates. However, it may also have linked modern humans to various neuropsychiatric disorders. This genetic variant has a global presence, except in Africa, marking vast geographical scope of Denisovan genetic adaptation.

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Everything I Thought I Knew About Nasal Congestion Is Wrong

Research reveals the human nose has a much more complex anatomy and function than previously believed, operating similar to two separate organs. A process called the nasal cycle alternately constricts and opens the nostrils. The nasal swelling rather than mucus is the primary cause of stuffiness. Decongestants provide temporary relief by causing nose-specific blood vessels to shrink. Understanding this process could provide more effective treatments for congestion and stuffy nose.

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Kidney research reveals a novel DNAm clock measure of biological aging

Scientists from the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden and the University of Glasgow have developed a novel DNA methylation (DNAm) clock, improving assessment of aging rate for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The new biomarker allows for the measurement of biological vs chronological age. Further research is necessary to maximize the evaluation of lifestyle change effects on biological age using DNAm clocks.

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