This week we highlight new demand for smallpox vaccines driven by a monkeypox outbreak, the continuing need to improve representation in clinical trials, controlling machines with just your mind, and the lack of combination trials involving a COVID-19 antiviral. Finally, we look at new “smart” contacts that could help treat glaucoma. Each week we highlight five things you need to know about in the life sciences industry. Here’s the latest.
Monkeypox cases trigger increased demand for smallpox vaccines
Monkeypox is a disease related to chickenpox and smallpox that is present most commonly in Central and West Africa. However, a recent outbreak has spread to Europe and at least one case has been identified in the United States. This has triggered renewed interest and demand for smallpox vaccines, which have been shown to provide some protection against monkeypox as well.
Representation in clinical trials continues to lag behind goals despite focus
When studying a treatment, it is critical that the population involved in the study is representative of the patient population expected if it is approved. However, despite substantial focus on the issue, a new report from the Committee on Improving Representation of Women and Underrepresented Minorities in Clinical Trials and Research shows that much work remains to be done. Although the balance of men and women in trials has improved, racial and ethnic minority populations continue to be underrepresented.
Paralysis patient begins driving after researchers develop brain-computer interface
Continued advancement in brain-computer interfaces for paralysis patients has allowed one man to regain some freedom behind the wheel. A team of researchers from the Falci Institute for Spinal Cord Injuries developed a brain-computer interface that read the patient’s thoughts and ultimately actuated a vehicle’s throttle. This technology could ultimately be used to actuate electric wheelchairs, golf carts, exoskeletons and more.
Trials combining Paxlovid with other therapies not yet happening
It is common for researchers to study the impact of combining multiple treatments when combating a disease like COVID-19. This has been shown in other diseases to help prevent the emergence of treatment resistant strains of diseases. However, there are currently no ongoing clinical trials looking at combining Pfizer’s antiviral with other treatments because of a lack of availability of the drug for use in these types of trials.
Chinese researchers working on “smart” contact lens that treats glaucoma
The concept of a “smart” contact lens capable of more than vision augmentation has been explored for years with limited results. A team of researchers at Sun Yat-Sen University in Guangzhou, China is conducting tests on a contact lens that is capable of administering anti-glaucoma drugs, as needed. In animal trials, the lens has demonstrated the ability to measure intraocular pressure and trigger delivery of the drug when pressure reaches a certain level.
