Category Archives: Health

MC4R Agonist Drug Candidates Demonstrate Potential to Transform GLP1 Obesity Therapy

Newton, MA, July 17, 2024 — Courage, a pre-clinical stage biotech company, announced groundbreaking results, funded in part by an NIDDK funded STTR research grant on obesity. The article “Subthreshold activation of the melanocortin system causes generalized sensitization to anorectic agents in mice” was published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation by senior author and Courage co-founder Dr. Roger Cone. It reports on synergy between GLP1RA and MC4R agonist drugs, demonstrating that low doses of MC4R agonists can significantly improve the dose-responsiveness of GLP1RA drugs to reduce food intake and drive weight loss through a novel mechanism that can improve GLP1RA weight loss efficacy without increasing side effects.

“This synergy between the MC4R circuit and GLP1RA agents could revolutionize the obesity treatment landscape similar to how GLP1/GIP combinations such as tirzepatide have recently shown dramatic improvements in weight loss,” said Dan Housman CEO.

Courage completed a successful four-year drug discovery campaign resulting in a market leading portfolio of optimized MC4R peptide agonist drug candidates designed to address the combination opportunity. Clinical candidates have demonstrated significantly higher potency and selectivity in animal models than setmelanotide, the only MC4R agonist currently approved for obesity treatment. The selectivity eliminates MC1R activity which drives a pigmentation side effect that has limited pharma development of MC4R agonists in dietary obesity. Combining Courage products with GLP1RA drugs such as Ozempic and Mounjaro in new ways is expected to improve the safety of GLP1RA drugs by lowering nausea, increasing physical activity, and reducing gastrointestinal discomfort.

“Based on their deep expertise in the field of melanocortin biology, Courage scientists have developed a range of peptide drugs that activate the MC4R. The potency and specificity of these drugs represent a significant advance on the only currently licensed activator of this receptor, setmelanotide. Their current paper in the Journal of Clinical Investigation Dahir et al adds to the evidence that combining low doses of a melanocortin 4 agonist with anti-obesity drugs acting through the GLP1Receptor can lead to greater weight loss in mice than when these drugs are used alone. Combining a specific and potent MC4R agonist with a drug acting on GLP1R opens up the exciting possibility of novel “dual action” anti-obesity agents with improved efficacy, safety and tolerability said Stephen O’Rahilly, Professor of Clinical Biochemistry and Medicine at the University of Cambridge and chair of Courage’s Scientific Advisory Board.

The company is initiating pre-clinical studies to bring product candidates into the clinic. Additionally, Courage is seeking partnerships with GLP1RA drug companies.
Go to the article: “Subthreshold activation of the melanocortin system causes generalized sensitization to anorectic agents in mice,” Journal of Clinical Investigation.

How New Research Could Change the Way We Fight the Opioid Epidemic

Jupiter, FL, July 17, 2024 — New research from a Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience researcher could transform how we understand the way opioids affect the brain. Despite significant discussion surrounding the ongoing opioid crisis, current understanding of how opioids function in the brain is quite limited. This is primarily due to challenges in observing and measuring opioid effects in the brain in real-time. However, a recent technological breakthrough, led by Dr. Lin Tian and her research team and collaborators, recently published in Nature Neuroscience, has overcome these limitations and is set to transform how scientists study opioid signaling in the brain.

What do we know about opioid signaling?

Pharmaceutical opioids, such as morphine and oxycodone, and illicit opioid drugs like heroin, affect the brain and body by binding to opioid receptors on the surface of cells in the nervous system. These receptors normally respond to naturally produced chemicals that are released in your brain, called endogenous opioids, including endorphins, enkephalins, and dynorphins.

Released in response to pleasurable activities such as laughter, sex, and exercise and aversive activities like injury and trauma, these chemicals bind opioid receptors and reduce the ability of neurons to receive and transmit signals. These cellular effects ultimately lead to the cognitive and behavioral effects associated with opioids, including positive feelings, pain relief, and addiction.

Challenges in understanding opioid signaling
Numerous questions remain about how these behavioral effects are caused by opioids and whether it is possible to harness specific opioid properties such as pain relief without undesirable effects, such as addiction. The opioid scientific literature is extensive and has confirmed that targeting the opioid system is of clinical interest – not only for pain management but also, more recently, for the treatment of mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Development of therapeutics that can target these health challenges while preventing the tragedy of the current opioid epidemic requires further understanding of the diverse effects of opioids in the brain.

The diversity of opioid effects on the brain is driven by more than 20 different opioid chemicals produced in the brain and more than 500 different synthetic opioids. Most of these different opioids interact with all three types of opioid receptors with different strengths. Their varied effects depend on the concentration of opioid, the specific receptors present and the brain circuits involved.

“Efforts are underway to harness various therapeutic properties of opioids by targeting specific receptor actions and brain circuits to develop more effective and safer therapeutics. However, these efforts have been hampered by our inability to measure diverse opioid signaling in real time in the brain effectively,” said Dr. Tian.
New technology opens door to understanding opioids in brain
Through a massive effort developing and testing over 1,000 variants, Dr. Tian’s team has optimized highly-sensitive biosensors based on the three opioid receptors. These biosensors, originally developed while Tian was at the University of California, Davis, emit fluorescence upon opioid binding to the sensor and turn off when the opioid is no longer there. The biosensors, therefore, serve as a proxy for opioid binding to specific opioid receptors.

Introducing these sensors into the brain of an animal provides a way to visualize opioid signaling across the brain in real-time.

“The power of this new technology is that we now have the tools to understand the natural opioid system in the brain, including how to distinguish between different opioid effects. We can track endogenous opioid release in real-time, triggered by both reward and aversion and see the differences in opioid signaling in different brain circuits.”

Dr. Tian’s team has already been sharing these new tools widely to accelerate the impact this new technology will have on the understanding of opioids.

Citation:
Title: Unlocking opioid neuropeptide dynamics with genetically-encoded biosensors Authors: Chunyang Dong, Raajaram Gowrishankar, Yihan Jin, Xinyi Jenny He, Achla Gupta, Huikun Wang, Nilüfer Sayar Atasoy, Rodolfo Flores-Garcia, Karan Mahe, Nikki Tjahjono, Ruqiang Liang, Aaron Marley, Grace Or Mizuno, Darren Kirin Lo, Qingtao Sun, Jennifer L. Whistler1, Bo Li, Ivone Gomes, Mark Von Zastrow, Hugo A Tejeda, Deniz Atasoy, Lakshmi A Devi, Michael R. Bruchas, Matthew R. Banghart, Lin Tian
Journal: Nature Neuroscience

New York Cancer & Blood Specialists Opens State-of-the-Art Cancer Center in Port Jefferson Station

Port Jefferson Station, NY, July 16, 2024 — New York Cancer & Blood Specialists (NYCBS), one of the Nation’s leading oncology practices, is proud to announce its new state-of-the-art comprehensive cancer center at 1500 Route 112, Building 1. The center is approximately 18,000 square feet and just across the parking lot from its previous location in Building 1.

“Our new facility represents a significant step forward in our mission to deliver world-class cancer care,” said Dr. Jeff Vacirca, Chief Executive Officer of NYCBS. “With this new space, we can see even more patients, ensuring everyone receives the timely and comprehensive care they need. This move allows us to provide integrated, patient-centered care in a modern and comfortable setting, reflecting our dedication to improving patient outcomes and experiences.”

The new facility, equipped with cutting-edge technology and expanded services, is designed to enhance patient care and comfort. NYCBS’s experienced oncologists will continue to provide comprehensive cancer care using the latest advancements. The new facility increases capacity, with 33 infusion chairs and 26 exam rooms, ensuring reduced wait times for timely and efficient treatment.

The advanced radiology department offers precise diagnostic imaging, featuring a 64-slice Evo CT scanner and ultrasound capabilities. A unique and significant feature of the new facility is the dedicated wellness suite, established through a partnership with Mondays at Racine. This suite provides free services to patients, such as oncology massage, skincare, and beauty treatments, to support their overall well-being. NYCBS remains dedicated to patients and their families, striving to make every visit as positive and supportive as possible.

SYNAPS Dx Welcomes Renowned Alzheimer’s Researcher, Dr. Donna Wilcock, to Its Scientific Advisory Board

North Bethesda, MD, July 16, 2024 –(SYNAPS Dx, a leader in the development of innovative diagnostics for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), is proud to announce the addition of Donna M. Wilcock, Ph.D., to its Scientific Advisory Board. Donna Wilcock, PhD is the Barbara and Larry Sharpf Professor in Alzheimer’s Disease Research and Director of the Center for Neurodegenerative Disorders at Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Wilcock serves as a member of Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, the Indiana Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (IADRC), and the Editor-in-Chief or Alzheimer’s and Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association.

Dr. Wilcock brings an extensive background in AD with a focus on the key factors driving cognitive impairment and dementia such as neuroinflammation and vascular cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID). With a B.S. in Pharmacology from Cardiff University, a Ph.D. from the University of South Florida, and postdoctoral training at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Duke University, her expertise and groundbreaking research will be invaluable to SYNAPS Dx as the company continues to advance the DISCERN™ diagnostic test for Alzheimer’s disease.

“Dr. Wilcock’s exceptional research into the molecular mechanisms and identification of novel biomarkers and comorbidities in AD and VCID adds a critical dimension to our understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and its comorbidities,” said Paul Tanico, Chief Strategy Officer and Executive Chairman at SYNAPS Dx.

Dr. Wilcock’s research, funded by the National Institute on Aging and the National Institute on Neurological Disorders and Stroke, focusing on inflammatory and angiogenic processes and their influence on the progression and severity of Alzheimer’s disease positions her as a leading voice in the field.

“As we continue to see the impact of our DISCERN™ test in the community, bringing Dr. Wilcock on board reinforces our commitment to staying at the forefront of Alzheimer’s disease research and diagnosis,” Tanico added. “Her expertise will be instrumental in guiding our research and development efforts, ensuring that DISCERN™ remains the most accurate and minimally invasive diagnostic test for Alzheimer’s disease available.”

Atlantic Health Strategies Welcomes Melissa Scopa as Director of Quality Assurance

West Palm Beach, FL, July 16, 2024 –Atlantic Health Strategies is pleased to announce the appointment of Melissa Scopa as the new Director of Quality Assurance. Melissa joins the team with over a decade of notable experience in quality assurance and compliance within the behavioral health sector, specializing in substance use disorder and mental health.

In her previous roles, Melissa has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing service delivery through meticulous compliance and quality assurance initiatives. Her expertise encompasses a wide range of regulatory and payer requirements, enriching and strengthening the Atlantic Health Strategies team.

At Atlantic Health Strategies, Melissa will lead efforts to ensure that their clients not only meet but exceed regulatory standards and payer expectations. Her work will be crucial in guiding our growing client base through the complexities of compliance program design, navigating payer audits, adhering to rigorous guidelines, and developing effective corrective action plans.

“Melissa’s extensive experience and proven track record in leading quality assurance teams will be invaluable as we continue to expand our services and deliver exceptional value to our clients,” said Leah Kendall, Chief Compliance Officer at Atlantic Health Strategies. “We are thrilled to have her on board and are confident that her contributions will enhance our capabilities in serving our clients.”

Melissa is equally enthusiastic about her new role, stating, “I am excited to join Atlantic Health Strategies and to contribute to their admirable reputation in the industry. I look forward to working with the team to further strengthen our compliance frameworks and quality assurance processes.”

Melissa’s appointment is effective July 15, 2024 and she will be based at the Atlantic Health Strategies headquarters in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Pennington Biomedical’s Small Shift for July: Prioritizing Sleep

Baton Rouge, LA, July 15, 2024 — Small shifts can make a big impact on a person’s long-term health, and that includes catching some Z’s. Quality sleep is essential for physical health, mental clarity and emotional resilience. This month, making a few small adjustments to sleep routines can enhance overall health and energy levels.

Here are a few tips to help prioritize sleep:

Create a Sleep Schedule: Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Consistency helps regulate your body’s internal clock.

Wind Down Before Bed: Establish a relaxing pre-sleep routine. This might include reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing meditation.

Limit Screen Time: Reduce exposure to screens at least an hour before bedtime. The blue light from phones, tablets, and computers can interfere with your sleep cycle.

Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Make your bedroom a sleep sanctuary. Keep it cool, dark, and quiet, and invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows.

“Sleep is complex, but it affects everything,” said Associate Professor Dr. Prachi Singh, director of the Pennington Biomedical’s Sleep and Cardiometabolic Health Lab. “Your mental health and your physical health, everything is interconnected.”

For those who find sleep challenging, they can try making small shifts to their nighttime routine. Dr. Singh said that one of the best things about sleep is that people are naturally inclined to do it. And it doesn’t cost anything.

“Sleep is free!” Dr. Singh said. “It’s the easiest thing you can do to improve your health. If you focus on improving sleep, then depression and anxiety levels go down. You’re able to feel happier and see an improved quality of life.”

This year, the Pennington Biomedical Research Center is encouraging “Small Shifts” in food choices, exercise and daily routines. Through research studies undertaken by Pennington Biomedical scientists, the common refrain that emerged is that subtle, simple adjustments to personal habits and choices can build a foundation for lasting well-being.

Small shifts are something that everyone can do and can be incorporated into everyday life. Small shifts add up, and they are reinforcing, which further promotes the activity.

“In our mission to address and prevent disease, we feel that small shifts in diet, attitude, exercise and behavior can go a long way toward improving not only general health, but mental, physical and emotional health,” said Dr. John Kirwan, Pennington Biomedical Executive Director.

To take part in Pennington Biomedical’s “Small Shifts” campaign, people are encouraged to sign up online at pbrc.edu/smallshifts. Upon signing up, participants will receive a free health journal with helpful resources, a habit tracker, a meal planner and recipes from Pennington Biomedical’s Metabolic Research Kitchen.

Additionally, participants will receive monthly “Small Shifts” messages in which researchers will provide guidance through new small shifts. Participants’ names will be entered into monthly drawings for giveaways, including water bottles, t-shirts, Bluetooth earphones and other prizes.

DocMode Launches Clinical Research Services, Appoints Dr. Merin Dickson as Director – Medical Affairs

15th July 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  DocMode Health Technologies, India’s leading Med-Tech Ecosystem, announces the launch of its new Clinical Research Services. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the company’s mission to advance medical knowledge and improve patient outcomes through innovative research and education.

With the launch of Clinical Research Services, DocMode aims to provide comprehensive solutions that encompass clinical trial management, data analysis, regulatory compliance, and more. This initiative will support pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, and researchers in conducting high-quality clinical studies efficiently and effectively.

DocMode’s Clinical Research Services offer a broad range of capabilities. They include comprehensive management of clinical trials from study design to data collection and analysis, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards. Advanced biostatistical analysis and data management provide accurate and reliable results, while expertise in navigating complex regulatory environments ensures all studies meet necessary guidelines and standards. Additionally, the services include coordination and management of multi-center clinical trials to facilitate broader and more diverse patient recruitment and data collection.

In conjunction with this launch, DocMode announces the appointment of Dr. Merin Dickson as the Director of Medical Affairs. Dr. Dickson will lead the Clinical Research division, bringing extensive experience and a deep understanding of clinical research methodologies and medical affairs to the role. Dr. Dickson previously served as Chief Research Officer at Amrita Institute of Medical Science, where she managed multi-centric clinical trials and regulatory services for national biopharma missions.

“We are thrilled to launch our Clinical Research Services, which will play a crucial role in bridging the gap between clinical practice and research,” said Hans Lewis, CEO of DocMode Health Technologies. “With Dr. Merin Dickson’s expertise and leadership, we are confident that our new services will significantly contribute to the advancement of medical research and ultimately improve patient care.”

Dr. Merin Dickson also shared her enthusiasm about the new role, “I am honored to join DocMode at this pivotal moment. Our Clinical Research Services are designed to address the growing needs of the healthcare industry for robust and reliable clinical data. I look forward to working with our team and partners to drive impactful research that will shape the future of healthcare.”

Alivia Care, Inc. Introduces Alivia Care @ Home to the Gainesville & Ocala Community

Gainesville, FL, July 15, 2024 — Alivia Care Inc., the parent organization of Community Hospice & Palliative Care, announces the launch of Alivia Care @ Home, a groundbreaking initiative designed to deliver exceptional home health, home care, and supportive care (community-based palliative care) services to patients at an earlier stage of their illness, all within their homes’ familiar and comforting environment.

Community Hospice & Palliative Care, a trusted provider in North Florida since 1979, has consistently delivered high-quality and compassionate care. In 2020, its leaders established Alivia Care Inc. to broaden its mission and vision, aiming to extend care to more individuals in more locations and at earlier stages of illness progression. Today, Alivia Care @ Home represents this commitment by bringing the same renowned standards of care to the community through innovative home-based solutions.

Alivia Care @ Home will become a recognizable name across North Central Florida, offering specialized care for patients who prefer receiving treatment at home. Whether patients require home healthcare, additional caregiver support, or ongoing pain and symptom management, Alivia Care @ Home ensures they receive services designed to enhance their quality of life.

“Alivia Care @ Home is committed to extending the reach of our care services, making them more accessible to those in need,” said Susan Ponder-Stansel, CEO of Alivia Care, Inc. “Our goal is to provide continuous, comprehensive care that begins earlier in a patient’s journey, helping them manage their conditions in a familiar and comforting environment.”

Alivia Care @ Home offers a comprehensive range of specialized services, including nursing, physical, occupational, and speech therapies. These services are meticulously tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs, empowering them to regain mobility and independence within their familiar home surroundings. From assisting with daily activities to enhancing mobility and strength, we focus on individual goals and preferences, enabling patients to embrace life with confidence.

Confederation of Indian Industry CII and Hyatt Hotels launches Industry Led Hospitality Programme with Ecole Hotelier de Lausanne in India

15th July 2024  Gurugram, Haryana, India  Under a significant initiative for skill development in the Indian hospitality industry, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) is launching an 18-month Vocational Education and Training (VET) Swiss Professional Diploma program in collaboration with EHL and Hyatt Hotels in Delhi NCR and Lucknow.

Students who have completed their Class 12 can enroll in this program which is being delivered at premium Hyatt properties including Hyatt Regency (Delhi), Hyatt Regency (Lucknow), Andaz (Delhi), and Grand Hyatt (Gurugram). At present, there are over 500 students undergoing training by CII at other hotels across India. CII also assures job placements to its students upon their successful completion of the Swiss Professional Diploma.

Sunjae Sharma – Managing Director – India & Southwest Asia, Hyatt Hotels, “At a time when India is emerging as a global leader in the hospitality industry, there is significant growth potential for the youth of India who choose the VET by EHL programme, offered by the Confederation of Indian Industry. We are proud to be the first international hotel chain company in India to collaborate with CII and EHL for this initiative and to contribute to training a new generation of hoteliers. I am confident that the learning and training imparted at Hyatt will enable these young minds to stand out in this competitive sector and achieve their dreams.”

Aman Aditya Sachdev, Director & Regional Head at EHL for South Asia, Middle East & Myanmar, “The VET by EHL program is based on principles of the world-renowned Swiss Competency Framework and has been developed by EHL subject matter experts and faculty members, as well as with global industry feedback. The objective of the program is to prepare the youth worldwide for frontline job roles in the hospitality industry at global standards. Students of the program in India will be at a significant advantage with future employers, in global mobility and in their career progression. They will acquire the relevant knowledge and competencies required by the industry at par with international programs.

We are excited to launch the VET by EHL program today at multiple Hyatt Hotels across India. The program shall be delivered in coordination with the CII Institute of Hospitality; CII and EHL have established a long-term strategic partnership in India for the skilling of the youth for the hospitality sector.”

Sougata Roy Choudhury – Executive Director, Confederation of Indian Industry, “With the rapidly expanding hospitality industry in India and many other countries, there is an unprecedented requirement of skilled professionals. Also, the youths’ interest in long duration courses is dwindling. Hence, CII, as an Industry body has stepped in to bridge this gap through the VET by EHL Swiss Professional Diploma initiative, that offers practical training by industry experts at renowned and luxurious Hyatt hotels. We ensure students are job-ready from day one, and upon completing this 18-month diploma, they secure placements in top hotels and restaurants worldwide.”

NuvOx Pharma LLC Announces Authorization of ARDS Trial from Health Canada

Tucson, AZ, July 13, 2024 — NuvOx Pharma LLC (“NuvOx”) announced that it has received authorization from Health Canada for its EXTEND: novEl oXygen ThErapeutic NanO2 for mild respiratory distress in Phase Ib and ARDS in Phase II Trials.

Evan Unger, MD, CEO of NuvOx, said, “Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) has been an important part of our overall development strategy. We recently expanded our protocol inclusion criteria for this trial, aiming to accommodate patients in general respiratory distress. We believe our first-in-class product will be able to help ARDS patients. We are thrilled to receive this authorization.”

“We have been preparing this trial for the past few months. Products are ready and we have signed up the first clinical site,” added Jennifer Johnson, PhD, CSO of NuvOx, “We are also very grateful to US Department of Health & Human Services, Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), with whom we entered into a partnership last year. We look forward to launching the trial.”

Jarrod Mosier, MD, Professor of Emergency Medicine & Medicine, Vice Chair for Research, the University of Arizona, lead author on the article, “The impact of intravenous dodecafluoropentane on a murine model of acute lung injury.” Intensive Care Medicine Experimental 11.1 (2023): 33., and Chair of the Data Safety Monitoring Committee for the EXTEND Trial, said, “NanO2 has shown efficacy in animal models of respiratory distress, demonstrating the potential to restore blood oxygen levels, decrease lung inflammation, and improve survival. ARDS has mortality of up to 40% in patients and this disease desperately needs effective therapy. The EXTEND Trials is expected to pave the way for NanO2 as treatment for this deadly disease.”

Approximately 10 to 15% of patients admitted to the intensive care units and up to 23% of mechanically ventilated patients meet the criteria for ARDS (1). Despite advances in critical care, ARDS still has high morbidity and mortality(2). Hypoxia from the inciting illness contributes to various cognitive changes that may persist for months after discharge. Although NanO2‘s safety and efficacy are still under investigation via various clinical trials and has not been granted market authorization by Health Canada, its use in the EXTEND Trial aims at addressing this unmet medical need.

(1) Bellani G, Laffey JG, Pham T, Fan E, Brochard L, Esteban A, Gattinoni L, van Haren F, Larsson A, McAuley DF, Ranieri M, Rubenfeld G, Thompson BT, Wrigge H, Slutsky AS, Pesenti A., LUNG SAFE Investigators. ESICM Trials Group. Epidemiology, Patterns of Care, and Mortality for Patients With Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Intensive Care Units in 50 Countries. JAMA. 2016 Feb 23;315(8):788-800. [PubMed]

(2) Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)

This project has been funded in whole or in part with Federal funds from the Department of Health and Human Services; Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response; Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, under Contract No. 75A50123C00034.