Current Research (as of 23Mar2025)
Clinical research is continually advancing, offering new insights and potential treatments for a variety of conditions.
Below I have summarized a few of the studies currently underway.
Genetic Insights into Anxiety Disorders
Australian researchers are conducting the Living With Anxiety study to explore the genetic and environmental factors contributing to anxiety disorders. By analyzing the genetic profiles of individuals with and without anxiety, they aim to identify specific genes influencing the condition. This research could lead to more personalized and effective treatments for those affected by anxiety.
https://www.qimrb.edu.au/studies/living-with-anxiety
Advancements in Alzheimer's Disease Treatment
Significant progress is being made in Alzheimer's research:
Early Intervention: An experimental treatment has shown promise in delaying symptoms in individuals genetically predisposed to early-onset Alzheimer's. A study involving 22 participants demonstrated that long-term amyloid removal reduced the risk of symptom onset by half over an average of eight years.
Immune System Research: Researchers have discovered that enhancing the brain's immune cells, specifically microglia, can aid in clearing harmful amyloid beta protein clumps. This finding opens new avenues for treatment strategies targeting the immune system's role in Alzheimer's.
https://medicine.washu.edu/news/anti-amyloid-drug-shows-signs-of-preventing-alzheimers-dementia/
https://news.northwestern.edu/stories/2025/03/alzheimers-treatment-may-lie-in-the-brain-immune-cells-microglia-amyloid/
Malaria Challenge Trials
The University of Maryland has initiated a first-in-human Phase 1 clinical trial to assess the safety and immunogenicity of an investigational mRNA-based malaria vaccine. This study involves 20 healthy adult participants, each receiving three intramuscular injections over a six-month period, with total participation lasting about 20 months. The vaccine utilizes mRNA technology to encode part of the Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein (PfCSP), aiming to stimulate an immune response against malaria. This trial represents a significant step toward developing innovative malaria prevention strategies.
https://www.medschool.umaryland.edu/cvd/trials/malaria-mrna-vaccine-trial/