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A collaboration between the Ragon Institute and the Jameel Clinic at MIT has developed MUNIS, a deep learning tool that accurately predicts CD8+ T cell epitopes, aiding in vaccine development against infectious diseases. This achievement is part of the Mark and Lisa Schwartz AI/ML Initiative at the Ragon Institute, integrating artificial intelligence and translational immunology. By combining expertise in T cell immunology and AI, researchers have created a tool that outperforms existing epitope prediction models, potentially streamlining vaccine design and benefiting global health efforts. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for engineered bacteria that secrete therapeutic proteins, allowing for the production of medically important polypeptides that are challenging to obtain naturally. The engineered bacteria can be used for in vitro production and in vivo delivery of therapeutic polypeptides for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. The patent details methods for producing recombinant polypeptides at high yields that are properly folded, addressing the challenges of low production yields and misfolded proteins. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued to the President and Fellows of Harvard College for universal early cancer diagnostics, focusing on quantifying DNA methylation for disease screening, diagnosis, and treatment monitoring. The method involves detecting circulating tumor DNA in samples with high sensitivity and specificity, indicating the presence of various cancers. The patent outlines methods for treating cancer based on DNA methylation analysis and monitoring response to chemotherapeutic drugs, surgery, or radiotherapy. The technology aims to improve cancer detection and treatment outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for a wearable device developed by the President and Fellows of Harvard College, aimed at assisting stroke patients in their recovery process. The device includes a sensor-actuated soft actuator that can produce various actuation motions to aid in rehabilitation exercises. The device is designed to be worn by individuals with disabilities resulting from injuries or medical conditions, and it can be used in conjunction with a teletherapy platform for guided rehabilitation exercises. [Extracted from the article]

A collaboration led by the Wyss Institute at Harvard University, supported by a DARPA-ABC program, aims to develop safe drugs that can induce an anesthesia-like state in injured individuals outside of hospitals without compromising vital functions. The team's multi-disciplinary approach involves understanding the neuronal basis of anesthesia and creating new drugs that could be administered safely. By leveraging expertise from various institutions, including Harvard, MIT, and Tufts University, the team hopes to address the challenge of creating battlefield-ready anesthetics that could also help in various emergency situations and combat the opioid addiction epidemic. The project involves innovative research methods, such as using zebrafish models and advanced human Organ Chip in vitro models, to identify new compounds that could potentially revolutionize anesthesia practices. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for integrated human organ-on-chip microphysiological systems by the President and Fellows of Harvard College. These systems aim to provide alternatives to animal studies for drug development and national defense, replicating various human organ functions within microfluidic devices. The patent details the architecture of support structures for Organ Chips and an Organ Cartridge that interfaces with these chips for physiological and pharmacological analysis. This innovation has the potential to accelerate drug development, reduce animal testing, and inform regulatory decision-making. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for bone marrow microfluidic devices and methods for preparing and using them by the President and Fellows of Harvard College. The invention involves microfluidic devices with upper and lower chambers separated by a porous membrane, allowing for the culturing of bone marrow cells. The method includes perfusing media through the lower chamber and filling the upper chamber with a second media, potentially including hematopoietic media or endothelial cell growth media. The patent aims to address challenges associated with mimicking biological systems in vitro using microfluidic devices. [Extracted from the article]

The President and Fellows of Harvard College have been issued a patent for cells lacking B2M surface expression, allowing for allogeneic administration of such cells. The patent involves genome editing tools like CRISPR to target genes in human cells, reducing the likelihood of immune responses to allogeneic transplants. The invention provides a method to create primary human cells suitable for transplantation, eliminating surface expression of MHC Class I molecules. This development has broad applicability for hematopoietic cell-based therapy and could benefit individuals with genetic disorders, infections, or cancer. [Extracted from the article]

A patent was issued for electronic circuits designed to analyze electrogenic cells, with a focus on improving drug screening assays for neurological disorders. The inventors from Harvard College developed an apparatus with an array of electrodes and a control circuit to drive electrical currents and monitor cell activity. This technology aims to address the limitations of current methods by providing a high-throughput platform for evaluating the efficacy of therapeutic targets in electrogenic cells. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for organomimetic devices and methods of use and manufacturing by the President and Fellows of Harvard College. These devices, also known as organ-on-a-chip, aim to replicate tissue and organ-level functions in vitro, potentially replacing animal studies for drug development and toxicology evaluation. The devices can mimic dynamic mechanical forces and be interconnected to form multi-organ systems, offering a more holistic approach to studying human organ functions. The patent details the design and materials used in these microfluidic devices, emphasizing their potential for drug screening, disease models, and toxicology studies. [Extracted from the article]

A collaborative asthma project between Brigham and Women's Hospital and the Wyss Institute has received new grant support to advance research on diagnostic biomarkers for asthma. The project aims to shed light on unexplained causes of asthma and improve therapy by distinguishing between different forms of the disease. The team's efforts are driven by the urgent need to provide accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatments to asthma patients, with the ultimate goal of developing a diagnostic test that can pinpoint specific types of asthma. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Harvard College have submitted a patent application for "Ionic Liquids For Drug Delivery," aiming to improve the uptake of active compounds by delivering them in solvents. These novel ionic liquids show enhanced drug delivery kinetics compared to previous generations, offering potential solutions to drug delivery challenges. The patent application outlines compositions and methods utilizing these ionic liquids for more effective delivery of various active compounds, including polypeptides, antibodies, and nucleic acids, at specific concentrations and administration routes. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "Compositions And Methods For Treating Cancer By Targeting Endothelial Cells Having Upregulated Expression Of Transmembrane Molecules" was published online by the President and Fellows of Harvard College. The application focuses on harnessing a cancer patient's immune system to eliminate malignant tumors, particularly targeting immunotherapy-resistant tumors with upregulated transmembrane molecules. The invention involves unique targeting molecules that bind to these molecules on tumor cells, allowing for targeted treatment and diagnostic imaging. The application outlines various compositions, methods, and pharmaceutical compositions for treating cancer by inducing cell death or an inflammatory response in tumor cells with upregulated transmembrane molecules. [Extracted from the article]

The patent application titled "Anti-Pmepa-1 Antibodies Or Antigen Binding Fragments Thereof, Compositions, And Uses Thereof" by inventors from Harvard College focuses on harnessing a cancer patient's immune system to target malignant tumors. The application introduces antibodies, particularly nanobodies, that target PMEPA-1, a transmembrane molecule upregulated in tumor microvasculature. These antibodies aim to enhance T cell recruitment into tumors, potentially boosting anti-tumor immunity and synergizing with other immuno-oncology approaches. The patent application outlines methods for treating cancer by targeting PMEPA-1 and inducing cell death or an inflammatory response in tumor vascular endothelial cells with upregulated PMEPA-1 expression. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study tracked a diverse group of individuals over 25 years to examine gun carrying patterns. The study found that most gun carriers start carrying in adulthood rather than adolescence, with distinct differences in exposure to violence, persistence in carrying, and gun usage between adult-onset and adolescent-onset carriers. Factors such as race, sex, and exposure to violence play a role in gun carrying behaviors, highlighting the importance of understanding these patterns in the context of societal changes and political conflicts. The study sheds light on the complex motivations and pathways of gun carrying across different age groups. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "Methods And Compositions For Treating Sleep Apnea" was published online by inventors Lunsmann, Miller, and Wohl. The application focuses on administering a combination of a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI) and (R)-oxybutynin to treat conditions associated with pharyngeal airway collapse, such as obstructive sleep apnea. The patent application outlines various embodiments and dosages for the administration of these compounds in treating sleep disorders. [Extracted from the article]

The patent titled "Compositions and methods for non-myeloablative conditioning" by inventors from Harvard College focuses on developing novel, non-myeloablative conditioning methods for hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) to treat diseases like HIV/AIDS and hemoglobinopathies. The patent aims to avoid toxicities associated with traditional conditioning methods by selectively depleting endogenous stem cell populations in target tissues using immunotoxins. These methods could potentially correct, cure, or ameliorate diseases like HIV, AIDS, sickle cell anemia, and Fanconi anemia. The patent provides detailed methods and compositions for conditioning subjects for stem cell engraftment, emphasizing the importance of minimizing adverse reactions and toxicity. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for a human CGAS-DNA complex and encoded protein by the President and Fellows of Harvard College. The patent focuses on the structure of human cGAS in an active conformation bound to DNA, highlighting the importance of human-specific variations in cGAS sequence for DNA-sensing specificity and sensitivity. The patent provides detailed information on isolated polypeptides, nucleic acid molecules, and pharmaceutical compositions related to cGAS function and regulation. This patent aims to enhance the understanding of cGAS biology and potentially lead to the development of cGAS-based therapeutics. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application by inventors from Harvard College aims to inhibit viral vector-induced inflammatory responses in gene therapy. The application focuses on recombinant viral genomes linked to inhibitory oligonucleotide sequences to prevent proinflammatory cytokine production. These vectors aim to enhance therapeutic gene expression while reducing the inflammatory response, potentially improving the efficacy of gene therapy treatments. The method involves administering these recombinant viral genomes intramuscularly, intravenously, or intravitreally to target specific tissues and inhibit toll-like receptor activation. [Extracted from the article]

The Wyss Institute at Harvard University has been awarded the ARPA-H Sprint for Women's Health award to develop implantable immune organs called "iNodes" for personalized immunotherapy to treat ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at later stages, leading to poor outcomes, but iNodes aim to activate the immune system against tumors. This innovative approach could provide a new treatment option for women with ovarian cancer, addressing a significant unmet need in women's health research. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard have made significant progress in identifying proteins related to Parkinson's Disease (PD) in extracellular vesicles (EVs) found in blood. By isolating EVs and developing ultra-sensitive detection assays, they were able to accurately measure the presence of specific biomarkers, such as phosphorylated -synuclein, associated with PD. This advancement in liquid biopsies could lead to early diagnosis and potential treatment of brain disorders like PD and Alzheimer's Disease. The study, published in PNAS, highlights the potential of EVs as a source of clinical biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application by the President and Fellows of Harvard College details methods for generating podocytes from pluripotent stem cells, which are crucial for kidney function. The application highlights the importance of directed differentiation of stem cells into podocytes for disease modeling, drug testing, and therapeutic applications. The novel podocyte induction media and methods described in the patent aim to efficiently generate mature podocytes from stem cells, offering potential benefits for kidney disease treatment and regenerative medicine. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for methods to generate stem cell-derived b cells, which could potentially provide therapy for diabetes by offering a steady supply of b cells for transplantation. The patent, assigned to the President and Fellows of Harvard College, outlines a method involving specific agents to direct differentiation of stem cells into b cells. This innovation aims to address the need for a uniform supply of stem-cell-derived b cells for drug discovery and disease modeling purposes, particularly in the context of diabetes treatment. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study by researchers at The Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences found concerning levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in fish, even far from contamination sources like military bases. The study emphasizes the need for expanded monitoring in watersheds affected by PFAS contamination to protect communities that rely on freshwater fishing for food. PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," have seeped into water, soil, and food, posing public health risks beyond immediate contamination sites. The research highlights the importance of measuring a wider range of PFAS compounds in fish and developing consumption advisories to address the issue. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for universal donor stem cells and related methods by the President and Fellows of Harvard College. The patent focuses on creating hypoimmunogenic stem cells through genome editing to reduce immune rejection in cell-based transplantation therapies. The genetically modified cells have reduced expression of MHC-I and MHC-II human leukocyte antigens and increased expression of tolerogenic factors, potentially revolutionizing regenerative medicine. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Harvard College have submitted a patent application for methods and compositions related to 3-D cultures that mimic the complex topography of human skin, including structures known as "rete pegs." These structures are crucial for the mechanical properties of skin and the formation of the epidermis. The patent application outlines methods for creating multi-layered 3-D cultures with microfeatures resembling rete pegs, providing a biologically relevant model for studying skin diseases and conditions like psoriasis. The application details specific cell types and compositions used in these cultures, offering a novel approach to skin research and regenerative medicine. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "Integrated Circuits For Neurotechnology And Other Applications" was published online by the inventors from Harvard College. The application focuses on the development of nanowires for electrical communication with cells, particularly in the context of high-throughput ion channel screening for neurological disorders. The invention involves methods and apparatus for inserting nanowires into cells, applying electroporation, and exposing cells to compounds, aiming to improve the efficiency and accuracy of drug screening processes. The patent application highlights the potential of nanowires in advancing research on ion channels and neurological diseases. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for methods related to intestinal organ-on-a-chip technology by the President and Fellows of Harvard College. The patent aims to address challenges in drug development by providing in vitro models of human intestinal function using primary intestinal epithelial cells. These methods allow for the creation of co-cultures that support native intestinal structures and activities, offering a promising alternative to animal models in drug development research. [Extracted from the article]

The patent application titled "Delivery Of Cas9 Via Arrdc1-Mediated Microvesicles (Armms)" by inventors Cohen, Lu, and Wang, assigned to President and Fellows of Harvard College, explores a novel method for delivering therapeutic proteins, specifically Cas9, to target cells using microvesicles. These microvesicles, known as ARMMs, offer advantages over traditional delivery systems by addressing limitations such as immune response and target specificity. By incorporating Cas9 into ARMMs, this technology shows promise for correcting genetic diseases and enhancing gene therapy approaches. The patent application outlines detailed methods and systems for utilizing ARMMs to deliver cargo proteins effectively, highlighting the potential of this protein-based therapeutic delivery system. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued to the President and Fellows of Harvard College for methods and agents that enhance the engraftment of myogenic progenitor cells into muscle tissue. Myoblasts, which are mononucleated muscle progenitors, play a crucial role in repairing and rebuilding muscle fibers. However, challenges in obtaining sufficient numbers of myoblasts and achieving high engraftment efficiencies have hindered the clinical application of transplantation approaches. The patent describes a high-throughput screening method in zebrafish that identified agents, such as compounds that increase intracellular calcium levels, which can enhance the engraftment efficiency of myogenic progenitor cells. This research has potential implications for the treatment of muscle damage and diseases like Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. [Extracted from the article]

Harvard College has been issued a patent for methods and compositions for treating diabetes. The patent describes a previously uncharacterized gene and gene product that increases blood glucose clearance, independent of insulin and without causing hypoglycemia. The gene product, known as C1ORF127, may be processed into a smaller protein fragment with glucose-lowering activity. The patent also includes a methodology for enriching for mRNAs coding for secreted proteins. This research provides new insights into the causes and effects of diseases involving blood glucose clearance and offers potential new treatment modalities for diabetes. [Extracted from the article]

Attivare Therapeutics Inc. has licensed a portfolio of immune-modulating biomaterial technologies from Harvard University's Wyss Institute. The technology creates a training ground for the immune system, allowing it to better fight cancer and prevent infection. Attivare aims to develop novel immunostructure-based therapeutics using this technology, focusing initially on solid tumors and heme malignancies. The biomaterial technology consists of a 3D scaffold that can be loaded with immune cell-recruiting and activating molecules, attracting antigen-presenting cells and orchestrating a T-cell response. The technology also has potential applications in infectious diseases. [Extracted from the article]

The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University has received a $12 million contract from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to develop a biologically engineered broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapeutic. The project, part of DARPA's SHIELD program, aims to create a treatment that can be administered to trauma victims in combat casualty care scenarios to rapidly clear bloodborne bacterial and fungal pathogens. The treatment combines two technologies, "FcMBL-mediated pathogen-binding" and "macrophage-activating cellular backpacks," to create a powerful approach against infectious pathogens. The goal is to develop a pathogen-agnostic treatment that can defend against a broad range of pathogens. [Extracted from the article]

Harvard stem cell biologists have developed a groundbreaking 3D organoid culture method for generating large numbers of adult skeletal muscle satellite cells, also known as muscle stem cells, in vitro. This technique is expected to accelerate the understanding and treatment of skeletal muscle disorders. The researchers were able to maintain the regenerative capabilities of satellite cells by using 3D organoid culture techniques, allowing the cells to de-differentiate back to the satellite cell state. These lab-generated cells closely resemble native satellite cells and have the ability to engraft, repopulate the stem cell niche, persist long-term, and regenerate muscle after injury. The researchers also successfully generated satellite cells from human myoblasts, which has important implications for cell therapies. This research was supported by the Blavatnik Biomedical Accelerator and the strategic alliance between Harvard University and National Resilience. The team plans to collaborate with other Harvard labs to model the entire neuromuscular circuit for conditions like spinal muscular atrophy, ALS, and facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy. [Extracted from the article]

Ropirio Therapeutics, Inc. has obtained a worldwide, exclusive license from Harvard University and Boston University to develop novel molecules that activate the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system plays a critical role in various diseases, and Ropirio aims to be the first company to develop therapeutics that specifically target and activate this system. They have a pioneering in vitro platform that models human lymphatic vessels and a collection of proprietary small molecules that modulate specific targets within lymphatic cells. Ropirio plans to begin testing their drugs in clinical trials in 2026. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for compositions and methods aimed at reducing tactile dysfunction, anxiety, and social impairment in individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Rett Syndrome (RTT), Phelan McDermid syndrome (PMS), or Fragile X Syndrome. The patent, filed by inventors from Harvard College, addresses the need for novel therapeutic approaches to treat these disorders, as there are currently no FDA-approved treatments for ASD. The patent describes compounds and pharmaceutical compositions that can be administered to reduce tactile dysfunction, anxiety, and social impairment in individuals with these conditions. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "Rehabilitation Systems and Methods" has been published online by the US Patent and Trademark Office. The patent application, filed by inventors from Harvard College, describes a flexible wearable robotic system designed to assist with rehabilitation activities for individuals with cerebrovascular diseases and conditions, such as stroke. The system includes compliant actuators, sensors, and a processor that can perform rehabilitation activities, provide real-time feedback to the user, and determine intentional user engagement. The patent application also mentions the high prevalence of stroke and the resulting long-term disabilities, highlighting the potential impact of this technology on improving the quality of life for stroke survivors. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on epidemiology research from Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health on the association between short-term increases in particulate matter (PM2.5) and temperature exposures with stillbirth, highlighting racial/ethnic disparities among Medicaid recipients. Topics discussed include the marginal association of PM2.5 with stillbirth odds, particularly among Black individuals, and increased vulnerability in lower socioeconomic status (SES) areas.

The article focuses on advancements in integrating frailty assessments into electronic medical records (EMRs) to improve clinical care for older adults. Topics discussed include the development and implementation of web-based frailty assessment tools, the creation of a claims-based frailty index for Medicare, and the future directions for enhancing frailty-guided clinical care through real-world data and EMR integration.

A recent study conducted by Ryan Flynn at Harvard University has revealed that certain RNA molecules are chemically linked to glycans, complex carbohydrate polymers found on the surface of cells. This discovery challenges the traditional belief that RNA is confined to the intracellular environment and opens up new avenues for research into cell surface biology. The study also suggests that glycoRNAs may play a role in immune system interactions and could have implications for cell-cell communication and signaling. This groundbreaking research has the potential to drive new discoveries and therapeutic strategies in the future. [Extracted from the article]

The article details a Harvard University Medical School study using the hypoperfusion intensity ratio to assess collateral status in acute ischemic stroke patients with anterior circulation large-vessel occlusions. Topics include how baseline characteristics and admission lab findings relate to collateral status, the effects of cardioembolic and cryptogenic strokes, and the significance of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Stroke Scale scores and patient sex.

A patent has been issued to the President and Fellows of Harvard College for SC-beta cells and methods for generating them. The patent describes a method of deriving cells from human pluripotent stem cells that exhibit a normal islet or mature adult b cell phenotype. These cells secrete insulin appropriately in response to glucose and can be used to treat Type 1 Diabetes. The patent also includes claims related to the composition and administration of these cells. [Extracted from the article]

The article provides information on the patent application "Single Molecule Assays for Ultrasensitive Detection of Analytes," filed by the inventors including Rushdy Ahmad, Tyler Dougand, and Richard Novak on March 27, 2024 and was made available online on August 8, 2024. It mentions the patent's assignee, background information supplied by the inventors, and the claims supplied by the inventors.

A patent application has been submitted by researchers from Harvard College for a printable bioink and a method of printing a tissue/organ model or therapeutic construct. The bioink includes an uncrosslinked polymer and sacrificial microparticles, which are melted to form pores in the extracellular matrix (ECM) material. The method involves extruding the bioink through a nozzle into a deposition bath, crosslinking the ECM precursor, and then melting the sacrificial microparticles to create pores. This technology aims to improve the biocompatibility and printability of bioinks used in tissue engineering. [Extracted from the article]

The article presents the discussion on impact of vertical relationships between primary care physicians and large health systems on care quality. Topics include finding no significant improvements in low-value care or ambulatory care-sensitive conditions, but noting increased posthospitalization follow-up and reduced fragmentation of practice site visits; and effects of vertical integration on patient follow-up, care delivery processes, and quality-of-care outcomes.

The article focuses on the impact of e-cigarette (EC) use on respiratory health, as assessed through a smartphone app-based study. Topics include the correlation between short-term and long-term vaping and various respiratory symptoms, the methodology of using app data for health monitoring, and the associated risks of cough, phlegm, wheeze, and dyspnea linked to vaping.

The article focuses on the role of nasal microRNA signatures in determining the severity of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis in infants. Topics include the identification of differentially expressed microRNAs (DEmiRNAs) and mRNAs (DEmRNAs) associated with bronchiolitis severity, pathway analysis to understand the biological significance of these molecules, and the construction of miRNA-mRNA coexpression networks to pinpoint key genes linked to disease severity.

Researchers from Harvard's Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering and John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Science have made significant progress in the development of 3D-printed blood vessels for artificial organs. Using a method called coaxial SWIFT (co-SWIFT), the team created vascular networks that closely mimic the structure of natural blood vessels. They successfully printed biomimetic vessels in cell-free matrices and living human tissue, demonstrating the potential for personalized medicine. The researchers plan to further enhance the function of lab-grown tissues by integrating self-assembled networks of capillaries with their 3D-printed blood vessel networks. [Extracted from the article]

The article offers information on the effectiveness of a brief self-directed forgiveness workbook in addressing anxiety and depression symptoms. Topics discussed include the design and results of a multisite randomized controlled trial; the impact on unforgiveness, depression and anxiety; and the potential for widespread use of such interventions in improving mental health.

The article from Harvard College presents new findings on health services interventions for improving care in rare diseases. Topics include the identification of innovative strategies to enhance care for rare disease patients, a scoping review of interventions such as increasing access to multidisciplinary expertise, and the use of technology and standardized care pathways.