Latest news with #medicalscience
Sustainability Times
25-06-2025
- Health
- Sustainability Times
'Human Organs Grown in Mice': This Shocking Breakthrough Could Revolutionize Transplants and Save Thousands of American Lives Each Year
IN A NUTSHELL 🧬 Scientists have successfully grown human cells within mouse organs, marking a significant advancement in chimera research . within mouse organs, marking a significant advancement in . 🔬 The novel method involves injecting 3D human tissue models, known as organoids , into the amniotic fluid of pregnant mice. , into the amniotic fluid of pregnant mice. ⚖️ Ethical concerns arise as the integration of human cells increases, particularly regarding potential human-like cognition . . 🏥 This research holds promise for revolutionizing organ transplantation and addressing critical organ shortages in the future. Recent advances in human-animal chimera research have opened a new chapter in medical science, potentially revolutionizing organ transplantation. Scientists have successfully grown human cells within the organs of mice, presenting a remarkable opportunity to study human tissue development. This groundbreaking work could eventually lead to custom-grown human organs for transplantation, addressing critical organ shortages and saving countless lives. The concept of chimeras, organisms containing cells from two different species, isn't entirely new, but the current methodologies have introduced innovative approaches that enhance our understanding and capabilities. The Novel Experiment In a bold and innovative step, researchers have developed a new method for integrating human cells into animal embryos. Traditional approaches, involving the introduction of human stem cells into animal embryos, often resulted in poor survival and integration rates. However, this novel experiment, as reported by Nature, adopts a different strategy. Instead of injecting individual stem cells into embryos, researchers now inject 3D human tissue models, known as organoids, into the amniotic fluid of pregnant mice. This method, led by Xiling Shen from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and Qiang Huang from the Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation, uses organoids derived from reprogrammed stem cells. These organoids are injected into the amniotic fluid of mice carrying early-stage embryos, allowing the embryos to develop naturally. Remarkably, this approach doesn't require puncturing the embryonic wall, highlighting its minimally invasive nature. 'Shortest X-Ray Pulse in History': US Scientists Smash Records With Ultrabrief Bursts That Could Transform Atomic Imaging Forever The results have been astonishing. Human cells began to integrate into the growing mouse embryos, with organoids targeting specific organs. Within a month, around 10% of the mouse pups displayed human cells in their intestines, constituting about 1% of intestinal cells. Though the proportions were lower in the liver and brain, these human cells were functional and remained stable, demonstrating the method's potential. Ethical Concerns While the scientific community celebrates these advancements, they also bring forth significant ethical challenges. As the proportion of human cells in these chimeras increases, particularly in the brain, concerns about human-like cognition and the ethical implications of such research gain prominence. This is not a new debate; similar ethical discussions arose in 2021 when a US-China team created human-monkey chimeric embryos. 'Hidden for 80 Million Years': Rare Dinosaur Egg Reveals Stunning Secrets Through Groundbreaking CT Scan Analysis These ethical considerations require careful examination and ongoing dialogue among scientists, ethicists, and policymakers to ensure responsible research practices. The potential for this research to address vital organ shortages is immense, yet it must be balanced with ethical responsibility. Continued research and transparent communication are essential to navigate these complex issues. Implications for Organ Transplantation The potential applications of this research in organ transplantation are profound. The ability to custom-grow human organs in animal hosts could drastically reduce waiting times for transplants, saving countless lives. Organ shortages remain a critical issue, with many patients unable to receive timely transplants. This innovative approach could revolutionize the field, providing a sustainable solution to this pressing problem. 'Clot-Free Cancer Breakthrough': Scientists Use Sea Cucumbers to Forge Next-Gen Therapies That Rewrite Treatment Norms Moreover, studying human tissue development in these chimeras offers invaluable insights into developmental biology, potentially leading to breakthroughs in understanding and treating various diseases. This research also raises the possibility of developing personalized organs tailored to individual patients, further enhancing the success rates of transplants and improving patient outcomes. The Road Ahead The journey to fully realizing the potential of human-animal chimeras is long and complex. Researchers must continue to refine these methodologies, ensuring the safe and ethical progression of this groundbreaking work. Collaboration across disciplines and international borders is crucial to address the scientific, ethical, and regulatory challenges that lie ahead. As the scientific community advances, it is essential to engage in open discussions about the implications of this research, ensuring that it aligns with societal values and ethical standards. The promise of a future where organ shortages no longer exist is a powerful motivator, driving researchers to push the boundaries of what is possible. The advancements in human-animal chimera research mark a significant milestone in medical science, offering hope for addressing critical organ shortages and enhancing our understanding of human biology. As scientists continue to explore these possibilities, they must navigate the ethical landscape with care and responsibility. How will society balance the incredible scientific potential of this research with the ethical considerations it entails? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.6/5 (30)
Times
21-06-2025
- Health
- Times
NHS to offer whole genome sequencing to every newborn baby
Every baby born in the UK will have their DNA mapped by the NHS as part of efforts to assess their future risk of hundreds of diseases. Wes Streeting, the health secretary, said every newborn would undergo whole genome sequencing within a decade. Streeting has said the move was part of a ten-year health plan, due to be published early next month, which will allow babies to 'leapfrog' major killers. 'The revolution in medical science means that we can transform the NHS over the coming decade, from a service which diagnoses and treats ill-health, to one that predicts and prevents it,' Streeting told The Telegraph. 'Genomics presents us with the opportunity to leapfrog disease, so we're in front of it rather than reacting to it.
The Independent
20-06-2025
- Health
- The Independent
DNA technology in line for £650m investment in bid to fight serious illness
The Government is set to pour £650 million into DNA technology in an effort to treat serious illnesses before they become a problem. In comments first reported in the Daily Telegraph, Health Secretary Wes Streeting said new technology in areas such as genomics would help 'leapfrog' illnesses. The investment in genomics is expected to support the Government's 10-year plan for the NHS, which will see a greater focus on technology and prevention. Mr Streeting said: 'The revolution in medical science means that we can transform the NHS over the coming decade, from a service which diagnoses and treats ill health to one that predicts and prevents it. 'Genomics presents us with the opportunity to leapfrog disease, so we're in front of it rather than reacting to it.' Mr Streeting has previously spoken about his desire to make the NHS more preventative, reducing rates of serious illness and saving money in the process. The plan is also likely to see a greater role for artificial intelligence and other technologies to predict illness and allow treatment or medication to be offered much earlier. He added: 'With the power of this new technology, patients will be able to receive personalised healthcare to prevent ill health before symptoms begin, reducing the pressure on NHS services and helping people live longer, healthier lives.' Along with a greater focus on prevention, the Government's 10-year plan is expected to include Mr Streeting's two other 'shifts' in the NHS. That will see a shift away from hospitals towards more community-focused care, and from analogue to digital services. It follows Chancellor Rachel Reeves' announcement that the Government would increase NHS funding by £29 billion per year in real terms over the next three years as it tries to cut waiting lists in line with its election promises.
The Independent
08-06-2025
- Health
- The Independent
How your health can define your chances of seeing the world
Cancer is brutal. It robs many victims of years of life. The disease tears families apart. Thankfully medical science has dramatically improved the odds on survival. Yet cancer can have a long-lasting effect on travel – even after it has been beaten. The problem is travel insurance. Some insurers simply turn down flat people who have had cancer, regardless of the prognosis from the patient's doctor. Fortunately there are some excellent specialist companies who make it their business to offer policies for cancer patients. They typically provide cover for anyone who is deemed to be more likely than others to make a claim – whether because of advanced age or pre-existing medical conditions. You can find an expert through the Travel Medical Directory of the British Insurance Brokers Association. But the policy might end up costing more than the trip. You may have read about Josh Cull, from Bournemouth – who, in 2021, received the devastating news that he had a brain tumour. He was just 25. Initially Josh was told he had only three months to live, but thankfully a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy meant he was, in his words, 'healthy and fully recovered'. A number of people who have recovered from cancer have told me that a literal new lease of life spurs then to want to discover the world. So it was with Josh: 30 months after his treatment ended, he planned a South East Asian adventure with his brother and his fiancé. 'The trip was supposed to be a reward for everything we'd been through,' he says. 'However, I couldn't get an insurance quote for less than £3,000.' Josh could have abandoned the trip. That is what the Foreign Office would advise. It says: 'If you're travelling abroad, you should take out appropriate travel insurance before you go.' He might have been tempted not to disclose the cancer and treatment and just pick up a cheap policy. That could have ended badly. Should you fall ill as a result of a pre-existing condition returning, an insurer will immediately investigate your medical history. If there is a related condition you have not disclosed, the policy may be annulled and you could end up with medical bills running to tens of thousands of pounds. Instead, Josh took a calculated risk to go anyway. Like many other young travellers who do not have insurance, he got away with it. But for people who have recovered from cancer to have to face such a choice – travel uninsured or stay at home – is far from ideal. Some say that premiums running into thousands of pounds show travel insurers are profiteering from people who have been through an extraordinarily difficult experience. Yet travel insurance is a competitive business. Regrettably, this is down to harsh arithmetic. Underwriters crunch the numbers on dealings with travellers who have been through cancer. Their conclusion: there is more chance of a claim than for most travellers, and the cost of a claim is likely to be higher. Sometimes travel insurers' concerns are unfounded – and there is welcome evidence that insurers are now looking more closely at an individual's circumstances rather than refusing to insure cancer patients at any price, or applying outlandishly high premiums. But any traveller who comes with enhanced medical issues can expect to pay more. For example, I have osteoporosis (brittle bones). I enjoy trekking in the Himalayas. But because I am more likely than most to break a bone at high altitude, I paid £228 extra to cover an expedition in Nepal last year. Fortunately, there is one more option for people facing astronomical premiums: stay in Europe. The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) gives coverage for free or reduced-rate treatment in public hospitals in the EU and Switzerland. Some travellers with cancer or other conditions make a positive decision to rely on this asset rather than staying at home. Simon Calder, also known as The Man Who Pays His Way, has been writing about travel for The Independent since 1994. In his weekly opinion column, he explores a key travel issue – and what it means for you
Mail & Guardian
05-06-2025
- Health
- Mail & Guardian
Pioneer in nuclear medicine: Prof Mike Sathekge receives honorary doctorate from NWU
Professor Machaba Michael 'Mike' Sathekge. South Africa should invest more in nuclear research if it wishes to remain globally competitive and fulfil its responsibility to meet the diverse needs of its communities. This was Professor Machaba Michael 'Mike' Sathekge's message when he received his honorary doctorate in Pharmaceutical Sciences (Philosophiae Doctor, Honoris Causa) from the North-West University (NWU) on Wednesday, 4 June. He emphasised that the wide-ranging benefits of nuclear research in areas such as medical science, energy production, agriculture, food security and environmental sciences should be regarded as a national priority. And he would know. A towering figure at the forefront of nuclear medicine, Prof Sathekge's career has reshaped the clinical and research landscape of cancer and infectious disease treatment in South Africa and beyond. His contributions are both technical triumphs and deeply human victories. Prof Sathekge was raised in Tembisa and later became a standout scholar in Soshanguve, where he achieved the best national results in mathematics. He trained as a medical doctor at Medunsa. He also earned his master's degree there and began his career in nuclear medicine. A scholarship then took him to Belgium, where he obtained a PhD in molecular imaging in TB and HIV. On returning home, he became Head of Nuclear Medicine at the University of Pretoria and Steve Biko Academic Hospital. Under his leadership, a number of firsts have been achieved, including pioneering the use of Selective Internal Radiation Therapy for liver cancer in South Africa, to introducing novel therapies for prostate and neuroendocrine cancers using Lutetium-177 and Actinium-225. His work with PSMA-targeted therapies has gained global recognition, putting South African oncology research at the forefront of international clinical trials. As President of NuMeRI, he leads the continent's only dedicated nuclear medicine research infrastructure, aligning science, health and policy. A prolific academic and dedicated mentor, Sathekge has supervised dozens of post-graduate students and authored more than 300 peer-reviewed publications. Awards and widespread respect have been bestowed on Sathekge, who exemplifies how locally rooted research can have a global impact. By fusing compassion with cutting-edge science, he has transformed South Africa's nuclear medicine capabilities and, crucially, improved patient outcomes. He has also challenged conventional care norms, introducing novel radiopharmaceutical theranostics, while maintaining an ethos of healing and academic integrity. Through these efforts, he has changed the way cancer is approached and treated. Prof Sathekge is married to Dr Rachel Sathekge, an orthodontist, and the couple has two sons. The NWU's honorary doctorate recognises not only his achievements, but also the future he continues to shape. • Follow the link to the article here: • Watch an interview with Prof Sathekge and a video of the event
