From a potential breakthrough in Alzheimer’s treatment to innovative CRISPR therapies for genetic blood disorders and a promising new drug for schizophrenia, there’s a lot to discuss and explore.
- New Alzheimer’s Drug by Eli Lilly:
- Eli Lilly is developing a potential new treatment for Alzheimer’s disease targeting the amyloid protein.
- Clinical studies submitted to the FDA show promising results, with patients on the drug experiencing a 35% slower cognitive decline compared to a placebo.
- The drug also demonstrated a 40% reduction in the decline of daily activities.
- If approved by the FDA in early 2024, experts hope the drug, when taken early, may delay the worst effects of memory loss and cognitive decline for a few years.
- CRISPR Treatment for Beta Thalassemia:
- Following the approval of Casgevy for sickle cell anaemia, the FDA is reviewing the same CRISPR therapy for beta thalassemia, a genetic blood disorder.
- Casgevy is a one-time gene-editing treatment aiming to increase healthy blood cell production, potentially reducing painful episodes.
- Conditional marketing authorisation has been granted in the UK, and the FDA decision is expected in March.
- Innovative Schizophrenia Drug by Karuna Therapeutics:
- Karuna Therapeutics has developed a novel drug for schizophrenia, which targets muscarinic receptors in the brain, different from existing medications that focus on dopamine.
- In a study involving people with schizophrenia, the drug helped reduce extreme symptoms associated with the condition.
- If approved by the FDA, the drug may offer an alternative with potentially fewer side effects compared to existing antipsychotics.