Biogen’s Multiple Sclerosis pill succeeds at a late phase clinical trial

Biogen Idec Inc. has reported success in a late stage clinical trial of its oral multiple sclerosis drug BG-12 (see below structure), a competitor's of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries’ Laquinimod. A 240-milligram dose of BG-12 administered two or three times a day significantly reduced the proportion of patients who relapsed by 49% and 50%, respectively, after two years compared with a placebo....

Company adds that, in addition to significantly reducing ARR, BG-12 met all secondary relapse and MRI endpoints for both dose regimens.....

Ref : http://www.biogenidec.com/PRESS_RELEASE_DETAILS.aspx?ID=5981&ReqId=1621631 

Leafy greens (broccoli and cabbage) protect the gut’s immune system

In continuation of my update on Broccoli and its usefulness 

Research from the Babraham Institute and the Medical Research Council (MRC), were able to prove that leafy greens protect a certain type of immune cell known as intra-epithelial lymphocytes (IELs). IELs play a crucial role in keeping the gut lining healthy and preventing ‘bad’ bacteria from entering the gut while maintaining the balance of ‘good’ bacteria which help us to break down our food. Researchers studied mice fed a diet containing many vitamins and minerals known to be essential for good health, but which lacked vegetables. Over three weeks the mice lost 70 to 80 per cent of IELs.

The research showed for the first time that mice fed a diet low in vegetables rapidly lose these specialised immune cells lining the intestinal tract, but not other immune cells. The team discovered that IELs depend on chemical signals from the digestive breakdown products of a substance called Indole-3-carbinol, high levels of which are found in vegetables like broccoli and cabbage.......

Ref :1. http://www.mrc.ac.uk/Newspublications/News/MRC008231
2.  http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0092867411011366

INNOPHARMA Receives FDA Approval of Generic Levetiracetam Injection

In continuation of my update on Olanzapine......

INNOPHARMA Receives FDA Approval of Generic Levetiracetam Injection

Phase III Trial of Regorafenib in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Meets Primary Endpoint of Improving Overall Survival...

Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, announced the results from its Phase III trial evaluating its investigational compound regorafenib (see structure below, BAY 73-4506) for the treatment of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) whose disease has progressed after approved standard therapies: The trial met its primary endpoint of statistically significant improvement in overall survival. 

This is the result of a pre-planned interim analysis conducted by an independent Data Monitoring Committee (DMC) of the CORRECT (Patients with metastatic colorectal cancer treated with regorafenib or placebo after failure of standard t herapy) trial. Per the recommendation of the DMC, the study has been unblinded and patients in the placebo arm will be offered treatment with regorafenib. In this trial, the safety and tolerability of regorafenib were generally as expected.

"These data are significant because they demonstrate that regorafenib increased overall survival in patients with heavily pretreated metastatic colorectal cancer, an area of high unmet medical need," said Kemal Malik .....

Ref : http://www.bayer.com/en/news-detail.aspx?newsid=15124

Researcher's compound disables bacteria instead of killing them

A microbiologist at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) has discovered a different approach: Instead of killing the bacteria, why not disarm them, quashing disease without the worry of antibiotic resistance?

Ching-Hong Yang, associate professor of biological sciences, has developed a compound that shuts off the "valve" in a pathogen's DNA that allows it to invade and infect. The research is so promising that two private companies are testing it with an eye toward commercialization.

"Researchers analyzed the genomic defense pathways in plants to identify all the precursors to infection and  used the information to discover a group of novel small molecules that interrupt one channel in the intricate pathway system."..

Yang and collaborator Xin Chen, a professor of chemistry at Changzhou University in China, have tested the compound on two virulent bacteria that affect plants and one that attacks humans. They found it effective against all three and believe the compound can be applied to treatments for plants, animals and people.

Ref : Ching-Hong Yang et.al., 

WPI Research Shows How Cranberry Juice Fights Bacteria at the Molecular Level

The study tested proanthocyanidins or PACs, a group of flavonoids found in cranberries. Because they were thought to be the ingredient that gives the juice its infection-fighting properties, PACs have been considered a hopeful target for an effective extract. The new WPI report, however, shows that cranberry juice, itself, is far better at preventing biofilm formation, which is the precursor of infection, than PACs alone. The data is reported in the paper "Impact of Cranberry Juice and Proanthocyanidins on the Ability of Escherichia coli to Form Biofilms," which will be published on-line, ahead of print on Oct. 31, 2011, by the journal Food Science and Biotechnology.

WPI Research Shows How Cranberry Juice Fights Bacteria at the Molecular Level

New dual drug combinations in development for various cancers

New dual drug combinations in development for various cancers: A rarely used—and as yet largely unproven—approach to drug development has emerged as a significant tool in the effort to create high-impact new cancer drugs.

New data on novel gene-silencing oligonucleotide technology...

Idera announced new data on its novel gene-silencing oligonucleotide (GSO) technology at the Cell Symposium on Regulatory RNAs in Chicago, IL. In preclinical studies, systemic delivery of GSOs targeted to ApoB or PCSK9 mRNA caused a reduction in the level of the targeted mRNA and associated protein and resulted in a decrease in serum total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol concentration. ApoB and PCSK9 are two validated targets associated with cardiovascular diseases.

In this study, Idera created 19mer GSOs for apolipoprotein B (ApoB) and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) mRNA and evaluated their in vivo activity in mice following subcutaneous administration. The data demonstrate that treatment with each GSO led to a significant reduction in the concentration of the target associated mRNAs and protein. The effects were specific, with no significant effects being observed on ABCA1, ABCG1 or LXR mRNA levels. In addition, treatment with GSOs for either ApoB or PCSK9 resulted in a decrease in total serum cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol. 

More...

Yawning May Help the Brain Chill Out

Yawning May Help the Brain Chill Out: Yawning may be a natural way of regulating brain temperature, a new study suggests.U.S. researchers examined the frequency of yawns among 80 people in the winter and another 80 people in the summer and found seasonal...

HSV1 drugs could slow progression of Alzheimer's disease

HSV1 drugs could slow progression of Alzheimer's disease: Antiviral drugs used to target the herpes virus could be effective at slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), a new study shows.

New Alzheimer's Drug Shows Early Promise

An experimental Alzheimer's disease drug, gantenerumab, may help lower levels of amyloid plaque in the brains of people with the disease, an early clinical trial indicates. Researchers claims that, of 16 people with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease, those who received two to seven infusions of the experimental drug every four weeks showed marked reductions in the amount of plaque in their brains via imaging tests that were conducted several months after their treatments.....

More...

Ginger Supplements Might Ease Inflammation Linked to Colon Cancer..

A small, preliminary study finds that ginger root supplements seem to reduce inflammation in the intestines  a potential sign that the pills might reduce the risk of colon cancer. Previous research in animals has suggested that ginger can reduce inflammation but isn't potentially toxic to the stomach like aspirin, Zick noted. And scientists have linked chronic inflammation in the gut to colon cancer, suggesting that easing this inflammation could reduce the risk of the disease.

In the new study, Zick's team randomly assigned 30 people to take pills containing 2 grams of ground ginger root extract or a "dummy" placebo pill each day for 28 days. They measured the level of inflammation in the participants' intestines before and after the test period. The researchers found that the level of inflammation in the subjects who took the ginger pills fell by an average of 28 percent, while staying about the same in those who took the placebo.

Ref : http://cancerpreventionresearch.aacrjournals.org/content/early/2011/10/07/1940-6207.CAPR-11-0224.abstract

Teriflunomide drug reduces relapse rate of people with MS

 In continuation of my update on  Teriflunomide
A new oral drug has been shown in a large international clinical trial to significantly reduce the relapse rate of people with multiple sclerosis and to slow the progression of the disease.

More....

First combination drug to treat type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol receives FDA approval

In continuation of my update on Simvastin

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved Juvisync (sitagliptin and simvastatin), a fixed-dose combination (FDC) prescription medication that contains two previously approved medicines in one tablet for use in adults who need both sitagliptin and simvastatin.....

More....

Blueberry powder may control triple negative breast cancer

In continuation of my update on blue berry's usefulness....

Blueberry powder may control triple negative breast cancer: In several studies recently conducted at the Beckman Research Institute at the City of Hope, Duarte, CA researchers found that feeding blueberry powder to mice significantly reduced the growth and spread of triple negative breast cancer cells, a very aggressive form of cancer.

Health Canada approves Trajenta (linagliptin) for type 2 diabetes

Linagliptin (below structure, BI-1356, trade name Tradjenta) is a DPP-4 inhibitor developed by Boehringer Ingelheim for treatment of type II diabetes.Linagliptin (once-daily) was approved by the US FDA on 2 May 2011 for treatment of type II diabetes. It is being marketed by Boehringer Ingelheim and Lilly. Linagliptin is an inhibitor of DPP-4, an enzyme that degrades the incretin hormones glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). Both GLP-1 and GIP increase insulin biosynthesis and secretion from pancreatic beta cells in the presence of normal and elevated blood glucose levels. GLP-1 also reduces glucagon secretion from pancreatic alpha cells, resulting in a reduction in hepatic glucose output. Thus, linagliptin stimulates the release of insulin in a glucose-dependent manner and decreases the levels of glucagon in the circulation.

Now Health Canada approves....

More...

Novel drug shows promise for MLL leukemia

Novel drug shows promise for MLL leukemia:

According to British scientists a potential new drug from GlaxoSmithKline could treat mixed-lineage leukemia (MLL). MLL is the most common form of leukemia in babies. The study appeared in the journal Nature where scientists from the British drugmaker collaborating with the charity Cancer Research UK (CRUK) and Cellzome AG found that the experimental drug, called I-BET151.

More......

Ref : http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/nature10509.html

Drug Shows Promise Against Deadly Lung Disease

 An experimental drug may offer a thin ray of hope to people suffering from the rapidly fatal lung disease known as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The compound, currently known only as BIBF 1120 (see structure below : Vargatef™), seems to slow the disease, decrease exacerbations and improve quality of life for patients, according to a study funded by the drug's maker, Boehringer Ingelheim.

  "It improves the course of disease and, in my opinion, it's the first drug to significantly ameliorate the really devastating progression of the disease," 

said Dr. Norman Edelman, (chief medical officer for the American Lung Association, who noted that current treatments for the disease "are almost desperation attempts. There's very little evidence they work)..."

Authors don't claim [BIBF 1120] is going to reverse the disease. They claim it's going to slow it down, but even that is a major factor. 

Patients with IPF usually die within two to three years of diagnosis. While the disease used to be considered relatively rare, Edelman noted that doctors have been noticing an uptick in recent ears, especially among older men. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) involves a relentless stiffening of the lungs due to overproduction of collagen, the "cement" that holds lung tissue together. 

More : http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1103690

Broccoli, Cabbage, and other Veggies May Protect Against Colon Cancer

In continuation of my update on the usefulness of broccoli 
Austrailian researchers examined the diets of 918 colorectal cancer patients and 1,021 people with no history of the disease and found that consumption of certain vegetables and fruits were associated with a decreased risk of cancer in the proximal and distal colon, that is, the upper and lower portions of the colon.

Consumption of brassica vegetables (also known as cole crops) such as broccoli, kale, cauliflower, turnips and cabbage, for example, appeared to reduce the risk of cancer in the upper colon, while both total fruit and vegetable intake (and total vegetable intake alone) reduced the risk of cancer in the lower colon.

They also found that eating more apples and dark, yellow vegetables was linked with a significantly reduced risk of lower colon cancer...


More....

Preclinical studies shows EmPAC more effective than Taxol

Cornerstone Pharmaceuticals, Inc. has announced the publication of data from preclinical studies on EmPAC™ (nanoparticle reformulation of paclitaxel). Company claims the data demonstrating improved safety and efficacy of EmPAC™ versus Taxol®, the generic formulation of paclitaxel and one of the most widely prescribed chemotherapies. EmPAC™ is a nanoemulsion formulation of Paclitaxel and is the lead product candidate of Cornerstone’s proprietary Emulsiphan™ cancer selective delivery nanotechnology platform. Taxol®, an injectable formulation of Paclitaxel, is currently used to treat a variety of cancers, including ovarian carcinomas, breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and AIDS-related Kaposi’s sarcoma....

More : http://www.cornerstonepharma.com/wp-content/uploads/Empac-JNN-Release-FINAL-Sept_15_2011.pdf

Santarus, Inc. recently  announced that analysis of top-line safety data from a double blind, multicenter 12-month extended use study in patients treated daily with either the investigational drug budesonide (see structure) MMX^® 6 mg or placebo will be provided as support for the company's planned submission of a New Drug Application (NDA) for budesonide MMX 9 mg to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the induction of remission of mild or moderate active ulcerative colitis. Santarus had previously announced results from two Phase III clinical studies that evaluated the safety and efficacy of budesonide MMX 9 mg over an eight week course of treatment for induction of remission of mild or moderate active ulcerative colitis.

Highlights (of the study of 123 patients) are: 

• The frequency of treatment related adverse events for budesonide MMX 6 mg (21.0%) was similar to placebo (21.3%).
• Mean morning plasma Cortisol levels remained within normal limits at all visits for both budesonide MMX 6 mg and placebo.
• There were no clinically meaningful differences in the numbers of patients with abnormal bone mineral density scans at baseline and end-of-study between budesonide MMX 6 mg and placebo. 

"Now that we have the top-line safety data from the extended use study, we are moving forward as planned to submit the NDA in December 2011 for budesonide MMX 9 mg for the induction of remission of mild to moderate active ulcerative colitis," said Gerald T. Proehl, CEO/President of the company...

More.: http://ir.santarus.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=606515

We know that, Linagliptin (BI-1356, trade name Tradjenta) is a DPP-4 inhibitor developed by Boehringer Ingelheim for treatment of type II diabetes. Linagliptin (once-daily) was approved by the US FDA on 2 May 2011 for treatment of type II diabetes. It is being marketed by Boehringer Ingelheim and Lilly.

Now the companies have announced results of a 102 week Phase III study for linagliptin (trade name Trajenta® in Europe), which show meaningful and durable reductions in blood glucose for adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D). In the two-year study presented today at the 47^th Annual Meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD), the DPP-4 inhibitor linagliptin showed a favourable safety profile and lowered HbA1c levels by 0.8% over the long term in those patients treated with linagliptin for the full study period. 

Researchers conclude that, these results show that the efficacy achieved by linagliptin is reliable and meaningful in a clinical setting, but also that it is durable over the long term. This is especially important in chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes.

The data from these patients demonstrate the efficacy and tolerability of linagliptin as mono-, dual- (plus metformin or initial combination with pioglitazone) or triple (plus metformin and sulphonylurea) oral therapy over a period of 102 weeks. Reductions in HbA1c of 0.8% after 24 weeks of blinded treatment were seen to be durable over the additional 78 weeks. Overall, the rate of hypoglycaemic events was low and body weight remained unchanged.

More..

New drug cure nearly any viral infection?...

Could new drug cure nearly any viral infection? Technology shows promise against common cold, influenza and other ailments, researchers say

More : Broad-Spectrum Antiviral Therapeutics

In continuation of my update on H.Pylorihttp://www.med-chemist.com/search?q=pylori..

We know that,  stomach bacterium Helicobacter pylori is one of the biggest risk factors for the development of gastric cancer, the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. Molecular biologists from the University of Zurich have now identified a mechanism of Helicobacter pylori that damages the DNA of cells in the gastric mucosa and sets them up for malignant transformation.

 More at :

Biologists identify mechanism of H. pylori that damages DNA of gastric mucosal cells

In continuation of my updates on Rivaroxaban...

FDA Issues Complete Response Letter to Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development Regarding New Drug Application for Tapentadol Extended Release....

Researchers rethink fenretinide for prevention of oral cancer

In continuation of my update on fenretinide...

For more than two decades, researchers have studied and used fenretinide, a synthetic vitamin A derivative. Fenretinide's capacity to induce both terminal differentiation and cell death yielded highly promising results with cultured human cancer cells. Likewise, studies in lung, breast skin, prostate and bladder animal cancer models re-enforced fenretinide's cancer-preventing effects at the in vivo level. However, when it came to prevention of oral cancer,  fenretinide efficacy wasn't what scientists expected. After multiple studies with lackluster results, oral cancer researchers moved away from fentretinide to look elsewhere for an answer. 

Now researchers lead by Dr. Susan Mallery started rethinking about the failure and  wanted to find  a way to circumvent issues with poor systemic uptake by delivering the compound directly to the lesion. 

Mallery found the answer in partnering with two University of Michigan pharmaceutical chemists (Steven Schwendeman and Kashappa Goud Desai) to develop a first of its kind patch that sticks to the inside of the mouth, and delivers a continuous therapeutic dose of fenretinide directly to the precancerous lesion. The patch consists of three layers: a disk saturated with fenretinide and polymers that make the lipid soluble fenretinide better adsorbed in a water-rich environment, a secondary adhesive ring to hold the disk in place, and a final backing layer that ensures the medication stays inside the area of the patch.

The research team has just completed a pharmacokinetic study in rabbits. Subsequent plans include an initial Phase zero study in humans, followed by a clinical trial to evaluate efficacy in patients with precancerous oral lesions. A companion formulation designed to prevent emergence of pre-cancerous cells within the entire mouth may also be used in the fenretinide patch clinical trial. 

Ref : http://cancer.osu.edu/mediaroom/releases/Pages/Oral-Patch.aspx

Redesigned Vancomycin As Potent Antimicrobial Activity Against Vancomycin-Resistant Bacteria...

In continuation of my update on vancomycin....

A team of scientists from The Scripps Research Institute has successfully reengineered an important antibiotic (Vancomycin)  to kill the   deadliest antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The researchers claim that compound could one day be used clinically to treat patients with life-threatening and highly resistant bacterial infections. The compound synthesized is  an  analogue of the well-known commercial antibiotic vancomycin.

Vancomycin normally works by grabbing hold of and sequestering the bacterial cell-wall making machinery, a peptidoglycan (carbohydrate and peptide containing molecule). Only Gram-positive bacteria have a cell wall, which is a membrane on the cell's outer surface. Unfortunately, bacteria have found a way to alter the peptidoglycan in such a way that the antibiotic can no longer grab hold. Researchers claim that,  the new vancomycin analogue can grab hold of the mutant peptidoglycan, and again prevent the bacteria from making the cell wall and killing the resistant bacteria. But what is so remarkable about the design is that the redesigned antibiotic maintains its ability to bind the wild type peptidoglycan as well.

New compound has an amidine (an iminium, RC=NH+ linked to a nitrogen, N) instead of an amide at a key position buried in the interior of the natural product. I appreciate the idea and the simplicity in achieving the target functional group.

Researchers add that, although it is still at its early stages and there is much work ahead.In my opinion it is a good beginning...

Ref : A Redesigned Vancomycin Engineered for Duald-Ala-d-Ala andd-Ala-d-Lac Binding Exhibits Potent Antimicrobial Activity Against Vancomycin-Resistant Bacteria

New class of anti-diabetic compound established

New class of anti-diabetic compound established

In continuation of my update on Valproic acid...

New research suggests brain tumor patients who take the seizure drug valproic acid on top of standard treatment may live longer than people who take other kinds of epilepsy medications to control seizures. The research is published in the August 31, 2011, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.....

Ref : http://www.neurology.org/content/75/24/2229.abstract?sid=49b511a0-d597-4598-865c-297439b6eb39

Heat in Chili Peppers Can Ease Sinus Problems, Research Shows

In continuation of my update on the usefulness of   Casaicin...

We know that, Capsicum annum contains capsaicin, which is the main component of chili peppers and produces a hot sensation. Capsaicin is also the active ingredient in several topical medications used for temporary pain relief. It is approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is available over the counter.

Now researchers lead by  Jonathan A. Bernstein of University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, have come up with an interesting finding about Capsicum annum.  As per the claim by the researchers a nasal spray containing an ingredient derived from hot chili peppers (Capsicum annum) may help people "clear up" certain types of sinus inflammation. Researchers add that, study which showed that participants who used a nasal spray with Capsicum reported a faster onset of action or relief, on average within a minute of using the spray, than the control group and the spray is safe  and effective on non-allergic rhinitis.

Interestingly, this is the first controlled trial where capsaicin was able to be used on a continuous basis to control symptoms. It is considered a significant advance, because of the fact  that in  the previous trials the ingredient was too hot to administer without anesthesia.

Ref : http://www.annallergy.org/article/S1081-1206%2811%2900383-8/abstract

Press Announcements FDA approves Xalkori with companion diagnostic for a type of late-stage lung cancer

In continuation of my update on Crizotinib.....
Press Announcements FDA approves Xalkori with companion diagnostic for a type of late-stage lung cancer

Medical engineers develop sensor chip to monitor cancerous tumors

A team of medical engineers headed by Prof. Bernhard Wolf at the TUM Heinz Nixdorf Chair of Medical Electronics have now developed a sensor chip that can be implanted close to a tumor. The sensor chip measures the concentration of dissolved oxygen in the tissue and wirelessly transmits this information to a receiver carried by the patient. The receiver forwards the data to the patient's doctor, who can then monitor the tumor's development and arrange for an operation or therapies such as chemotherapy. The tumor is thus continually monitored and the patient does not have to visit the practice or hospital as frequently for check-ups. 

Researchers claim that, sensor chip has already passed laboratory tests with cell and tissue cultures. The main challenge for the researchers was developing a sensor that functions entirely autonomously for long periods of time. The sensor must continue to function and deliver correct values even in the presence of protein contamination or cell debris. It also has to be “invisible” to the body so that it is not identified as a foreign object, attacked and encapsulated in tissue.

We designed the sensor chip to self-calibrate to a set dissolved oxygen concentration at measurement intervals," explains engineer and project manager Sven Becker.....

More....

 

Scientists Re-engineer an Antibiotic to Overcome Resistant Bacteria - Topix

Scientists Re-engineer an Antibiotic to Overcome Resistant Bacteria - Topix

Yale scientists synthesize huperzine A to combat Alzheimer's

Scientists at Yale University have developed the first practical method to create a compound called huperzine A  (see structure below) in the lab. Huperzine A is a naturally occurring sesquiterpene alkaloid compound found in the plant firmoss Huperzia serrata. Huperzine A is also an Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, which has a mechanism of action similar to donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine. In the US, Huperzine A is sold as a dietary supplement for memory support. The botanical has been used in China for centuries for the treatment of swelling, fever and blood disorders. Clinical trials in China have shown it to be effective in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and enhancing memory in students. 

More at : http://opac.yale.edu/news/article.aspx?id=8796

FDA Approves Zelboraf - Potent New Melanoma Drug

Plexxikon Inc., a member of the Daiichi Sankyo Group, today announced that applications for market approval for vemurafenib ( PLX4032/RG7204, see below structure) for the treatment of metastatic melanoma have been submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). The company had 

Phase 2 and 3 trials (BRIM2 and BRIM3) that evaluated vemurafenib in patients with BRAF ^V600 mutation-positive melanoma, as determined by the cobas 4800 BRAF ^V600 Mutation Test.

 Earlier this year, the company reported positive data from an interim analysis of BRIM3 which showed that the study met the pre-specified criteria for co-primary endpoints for BRIM3 for progression-free survival and overall survival, and that the safety profile was generally consistent with the previous vemurafenib studies. Based on these results, the data safety monitoring board for the trial recommended early termination of the trial and allowed dacarbazine-treated patients to immediately cross over to vemurafenib treatment. BRIM2 results reported earlier showed a 52 percent confirmed response rate, with tumor shrinkage in the majority of patients, consistent with results from earlier studies. 

More....

Green tea shows promise against two types of tumors, HHS

In continuation of my update on green tea

Researchers lead by  Dr. Thomas Smith at The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center and his colleagues at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, have found that a compound found in green tea shows great promise for the development of drugs to treat two types of tumors and a deadly congenital disease. 

Dr. Smith and his colleagues discovered that two compounds found naturally in green tea are able to compensate for this genetic disorder by turning off GDH in isolated and when the green tea compounds were administered orally. The Smith lab also used X-ray crystallography to determine the atomic structure of these green tea compounds bound to the enzyme. With this atomic information, they hope to be able to modify these natural compounds to design and develop better drugs. 

Interestingly, two other research groups have validated and extended these findings to demonstrate that blocking GDH with green tea is very effective at killing two different kinds of tumors; glioblastomas, an aggressive type of brain tumor, and tuberous sclerosis complex disorder, a genetic disease that causes non-malignant tumors to grow on a number of organs. 

More...  

EMA has accepted Pfizer's regulatory submissions for review of two investigational compounds crizotinib and bosutinib

European Medicines Agency (EMA) has accepted Pfizer's regulatory submissions for review of two investigational compounds  crizotinib, an oral first-in-class anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor, for the treatment of patients with previously treated ALK-positive advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC); and bosutinib for the treatment of adult patients with newly diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome positive (Ph+) chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in the chronic phase. 

Crizotinib

                                                                                               Bosutinib

Dr. Andreas Penk, president of Pfizer Oncology Europe, claims that,

"With the EMA submissions for crizotinib and bosutinib, we are one step closer to potentially bringing two promising agents to patient populations in areas of significant unmet medical need"......

Two Randomized Trials of Linaclotide for Chronic Constipation

We know that, Linaclotide (BELOW STRUCTURE) is an experimental peptide agonist of guanylate cyclase 2C that is undergoing clinical trials for use in treating abdominal pain in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) accompanied by constipation. The drug was developed by Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. 

 Now researchers lead by, Dr. Anthony J. Lembo, an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and director of the GI Motility Center at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, have come up with interesting claim  that "people who received the drug had improvement in symptoms, and the treatment was generally well-tolerated". 

Researchers conclude that, linaclotide significantly reduced bowel and abdominal symptoms in patients with chronic constipation (2 trials). Additional studies are needed to evaluate the potential long-term risks and benefits of linaclotide in chronic constipation...

Ref : http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1010863

Study Pits New Blood Thinner Against Warfarin For Irregular Heartbeat

A new drug, Rivaroxaban, (see structure) that lowers stroke risk among people with an irregular heartbeat may give the old standby, warfarin, some competition, a new study shows.

 We know that, Rivaroxaban (BAY 59-7939) is an oral anticoagulant invented and manufactured by Bayer; in a number of countries it is marketed as Xarelto. In the United States, it is marketed by Janssen Pharmaceutica. It is the first available orally active direct factor Xa inhibitor. Rivaroxaban is well absorbed from the gut and maximum inhibition of factor Xa occurs four hours after a dose. The effects lasts 8–12 hours, but factor Xa activity does not return to normal within 24 hours so once-daily dosing is possible. Now the  new trial pitted the newer drug, rivaroxaban, against warfarin in more than 14,000 patients who were randomly assigned either warfarin or rivaroxaban. Neither the patients nor the doctors knew who was taking which drug. As per the claim by the resarchers, new agent proved to be as effective as warfarin at reducing the risk of ischemic stroke -- the most common kind of stroke,  but it did not need to be monitored as closely as warfarin since it is given as a one-size-fits-all dose....

"a reasonable alternative to warfarin, with less intracranial or fatal bleeding." claims the lead researcher, Dr. Manesh R. Patel...

Ref : http://www.newsroom.heart.org/index.php?s=43&item=1191

Bear bile chemical could help keep hearts in rhythm

We know that, the compound, ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA, see structure), is already used to lower cholesterol and help dissolve gallstones, and it's a key ingredient in many traditional Chinese medicines, which use bear bile. According to the latest research from Imperial College London it might also be able to treat abnormal heart rhythm, or arrhythmia, in fetuses and heart attack victims.

“These findings are exciting because the treatments we have now are largely ineffective at preventing arrhythmia in patients who develop an abnormal heart rhythm after a heart attack,” said Dr. Julia Gorelik...........

Ref : http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/newsandeventspggrp/imperialcollege/newssummary/news_2-8-2011-10-25-30

Positive results from combination drug trial for late-stage ovarian cancer

In continuation of my update on  carboplatin

Researchers from IU Medical Sciences Program-Bloomington  and Indiana University Melvin, have found that, an experimental two-drug combination (decitabine & carboplatin) for treating late-stage ovarian cancer continues to produce strong results, leading its Indiana University researchers to actively pursue the next step, conducting a larger clinical trial to test the therapy and to see how it compares with existing treatments for ovarian cancer.

The researchers have been investigating the addition of decitabine, which is marketed as Dacogen in the United States, because they suspect it reactivates tumor suppression genes that are turned off in ovarian cancer cells and improves cells' susceptibility to anti-cancer drugs like carboplatin.

"The science associated with the trial is novel and exciting and could have impact in the future," she said.....

More...

Diabetes drug rosiglitazone can reduce development of neuropathic pain..

In continuation of my update on Rosiglitazone,

The diabetes drug rosiglitazone (Avandia) can control inflammation leading to nerve damage and abnormal pain responses,  claims the researchers of  Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo.

As per the claim by the researchers, Rosiglitazone works by blocking a specific pathway—called PPAR-gamma—which appears to play a critical role in the development of disabling neuropathic pain. Researchers  therefore propose PPAR-gamma regulation of the macrophage-mediated inflammatory response as a novel therapeutic target for treating neuropathic pain development.

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FDA Accepts NDA Filing for Ruxolitinib as a Treatment for Myelofibrosis

FDA Accepts NDA Filing for Ruxolitinib as a Treatment for Myelofibrosis

Taxoxifen combined with dasatinib reverses chemo-resistance in breast cancer cells

Researchers from Thomas Jefferson University Hospita,  found that taxoxifen combined with dasatinib, a protein-tyrosine kinase inhibitor, reverses the chemo-resistance caused by cancer-associated fibroblasts in the surrounding tissue by normalizing glucose intake and reducing mitochondrial oxidative stress, the process that fuels the cancer cells. 

In this study, researchers sought to better understand drug resistance by looking at the metabolic basis in an ER (+) cell line and cancer-associated fibroblasts.  Researchers claim that the  resistance to chemotherapeutic agents is a metabolic and stromal phenomenal  and the drug combination had an "antioxidant effect" in these types of cancer cells.  

Researchers showed that ER (+) cancer cells alone responded to tamoxifen but when co-cultured with human fibroblasts had little to no effect. Similarly, dasatinib, a chemotherapy drug used to treat leukemia patients who can no longer benefit from other medications, had no effect on fibroblasts alone or cancer cells. Together, however, the drugs prevented the cancer cells co-cultured with the fibroblasts from using high-energy nutrients from the fibroblasts. Researchers conclude that, 

"The drugs have no effect when they are used alone-it's in unison when they effectively kill the cancer cells in the presence of fibroblasts and combination resulted in nearly 80 percent cell death" 

Ref: http://www.jeffersonhospital.org/News/leukemia-drug-reverses-tamoxifen-resistance-in-breast-cancer-cells.aspx

New cough suppressant from cocoa

Researchers are carrying out the final stages of clinical trials of a drug that contains theobromine (see structure), an ingredient found in chocolate and cocoa. The drug could be in the market in another two years.

New cough suppressant from cocoa

Press Announcements FDA approves Xalkori with companion diagnostic for a type of late-stage lung cancer

Press Announcements FDA approves Xalkori with companion diagnostic for a type of late-stage lung cancer

New three-drug combination may be effective for newly diagnosed blood cancer patients: Study

New three-drug combination may be effective for newly diagnosed blood cancer patients: Study

When Having the Blues is a Good Thing: Blueberries & Cancer Prevention

In continuation of my up date on the usefulness of blue berries.

Now researchers from the Department of Nutrition Sciences at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, lead by Laura Newton have come up with another interesting finding about blue berries, i.e., as little as a cup a day can help prevent cell damage linked to cancer.

As per the claim by the researchers, free radicals, atoms that contain an odd number of electrons and are highly reactive, can cause cellular damage, one of the factors in the development of cancer; many believe a diet filled with fruits and vegetables may help reduce the risk. 

Lead researcher says

"Studies suggest that antioxidants may help prevent the free-radical damage associated with cancer"

Researchers add that, Blueberries also are rich in vitamin C, which helps the immune system and can help the body to absorb iron. "Vitamin C also helps to keep blood vessels firm, offering protection from bruising. Blueberry juice and other products may be nutritious but often contain less fiber than the whole fruit, and added sugar or corn syrup may decrease their nutritional value. Consuming fresh, raw blueberries provides the most benefits; the average serving size of raw blueberries is one cup, which contains about 80 calories...

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Ivabradine also effective in reducing the risk of diastolic heart failure..

Researchers from the Montreal Heart Institute (MHI) have come up with the new findings about the drug,  ivabradine (see structure). Researchers claim that,  a heart rate reduction medication, is also effective in reducing the risk of diastolic heart failure (left ventricular insufficiency) and cardiac fibrosis.

As per the claim by the researchers Ivabradine, reduces Diastolic Dysfunction and Cardiac Fibrosis. The study was conducted on rabbits given a standard diet, a cholesterol-enriched diet or a cholesterol-enriched diet with ivabradine. Researchers found  that apart from improving the myocardial performance index, ivabradine greatly improved left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in animals receiving a cholesterol-enriched diet. Ivabradine also reduced fibrosis of the heart chambers adds the researchers.

According to Dr. Jean-Claude Tardif, Director of the MHI Research Centre and professor of medicine at the Universit- de Montr-al, 

"The effectiveness of ivabradine in treating angina pectoris is now well known. However, few treatments are available to patients with diastolic heart failure. The beneficial effects of ivabradine demonstrated in laboratory suggest that this course of treatment should be further investigated." Clinical studies with subjects are expected to follow..........

http://www.icm-mhi.org/files//pdf/Communique-EN-2011/press_release_Ivabradine.pdf

New anti-cancer agents show promise for treating aggressive breast cancers

New anti-cancer agents show promise for treating aggressive breast cancers

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