Emerging Novel Viruses
With trillions of viruses living in the human and other species’ microbiomes, the possibility of novel viruses such as COVID-19 emerging is high, but the threat they may pose is unknown.
Plasma Exchange May Slow Alzheimer’s Disease Cognitive and Functional Decline: Phase 2b/3 Clinical Study Findings
This trial suggests that plasma exchange with albumin replacement could slow cognitive and functional decline in Alzheimer’s disease, although further studies are warranted.
Lower, More Frequent Dosing of IVIG-Dependent CIDP Patients Does Not Improve Efficacy or Safety in CIDP
The investigators concluded lower, more frequent dosing does not further improve the efficacy of IVIG in stable IVIG-dependent CIDP patients, or result in fewer side effects.
Low Serum Albumin Level Strongly Associated with Severe COVID-19
University of Toledo investigators conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine whether there may be an association between hypoalbuminemia and severe COVID-19.
Infection Rates in PI Patients Decline with Increasing IVIG Dosages and IgG Trough Level
Titrating the IgG trough level up to 960 mg/dL progressively reduces the infection rate in PI patients, but there is less incremental benefit above this trough level.
$1.95M Grant Awarded to Study Autoimmune Diseases
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has awarded a $1.95 million federal grant to researchers investigating the underlying cause (molecular mechanisms) of autoimmune diseases.
Stable and Durable Factor VIII Expression in Subjects Dosed with Investigational Hemophilia A Gene Therapy
More than two years after receiving Spark Therapeutics’ investigational adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene therapy (SPK-8011), five adult subjects with hemophilia A exhibited stable factor VIII (FVIII) expression, with no evidence of FVIII inhibitors or a cellular immune response.
Breakthroughs in Stem Cell Research
Optimism continues to grow about the use of stem cells in regenerative medicine highlighted by hundreds of successful clinical trials.
Exploring New Vaccine Delivery Methods
Some promising new methods for delivering vaccinations could mean a pain-free alternative, the elimination of accidental needlesticks and reduced risk of infections.
High-Titer Inhibitors Reduced in PUPs with Severe Hemophilia A Treated with Fourth Generation Recombinant Factor VIII
A study in previously untreated patients (PUPs) with severe hemophilia A found replacement therapy with a fourth-generation recombinant factor VIII (FVIII) product was associated with an incidence of high-titer inhibitors similar to the rate seen in a landmark trial evaluating plasma-derived FVIII products.
