Animal experimentation

Possible new antivenom from one of the oldest surviving mammal families

Opossums have a naturally high level of immunity to certain types of snake venom. The opossum peptide responsible for this immunity has potential as an antivenom.…

Tau oligomers targeted with promising Alzheimer’s therapy

Scientists report promising early findings with an anti-tau oligomer specific monoclonal antibody that reversed memory deficits in mice with Alzheimer’s disease.…

A new structural model for enamel

Researchers in Illinois have found that rodent enamel is similar in structure to human enamel. This model could help to improve current fluoride treatment and dental health in humans.…

Energy restriction could tackle drug-resistant epilepsy

Shutting down a metabolic pathway that fuels misfiring neurons can suppress seizures in mice, find researchers who predict a fresh approach to developing antiepileptic drugs.…

Osteoporosis drug shows promise as COPD treatment

Repurposing the bisphosphonate bone drug alendronate relieves symptoms of emphysema associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by targeting alveolar macrophages, according to a study in mice…

Paroxetine improves symptoms of heart failure in mice

The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) paroxetine inhibits G-protein-coupled receptor kinase 2, an enzyme that hastens the onset of heart failure.…

Researchers modify peptides from cone snails in quest for neuropathic pain therapy

Researchers in Australia have modified peptides from cone snails, which have the potential to provide relief to patients with hard-to-treat neuropathic pain.…

Antioxidant prevents weight gain but effect in mice only seen in females

A naturally occurring antioxidant — 7,8-dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF) — mimics brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a hormone secreted after physical exercise that controls weight gain.…

Virus-mimicking TB may offer therapeutic opportunities

A study shows that TB bacteria release a section of DNA, a virus-mimicking molecule called c-di-AMP, and its behaviour offers drug and vaccine possibilities.…

Contain eating to a 12-hour window to contain weight

Pamela Mason describes research that suggests eating in a confined window of time may help to reduce weight gain.…