Read article—Features Michael Cole, a professor of molecular and systems biology, in an article examining new approaches to targeting MYC, a cancer-driving protein long considered “undruggable.” The article highlights a breakthrough pancreatic cancer drug targeting RAS proteins and reports that Cole is investigating compounds that could block MYC’s ability to activate certain other genes involved in tumor growth.  (Similar coverage in MisrYoum.)

Read article—Features Megan Romano, an associate professor of epidemiology, discussing the health risks associated with PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” which are commonly found in drinking water, food, and consumer products. “They have really unique properties, and that’s part of what has made them so attractive to industry. Unfortunately, we’re learning that it is also something that makes them toxic and causes problems in the human body,” Romano said.

Read article—Features Ugis Gruntmanis, a professor of medicine, discussing the fertility risks associated with testosterone therapy amid rising use of the hormone among young men. Gruntmanis said that while testosterone can suppress sperm production, “the effect is reversible once patients stop taking testosterone,” though it can take time for normal sperm production to return.

Read article—Features Michael Cole, a professor of molecular and systems biology, in an article on new approaches to targeting MYC, a cancer-driving protein long considered “undruggable.” The article reports that Cole is investigating compounds that could block MYC’s ability to activate genes involved in tumor growth following a breakthrough pancreatic cancer trial targeting RAS proteins.

Read article—Quotes Roy Herbst, the incoming director of the Dartmouth Cancer Center, in an article about China’s ascendance as a powerhouse in drug development.

Read article—An op-ed co-authored by Daniel Lucey, a clinical professor of medicine, argues that the latest Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda exposes major weaknesses in the global pandemic preparedness system, particularly in conflict zones. “These emergencies persist not because the world lacks scientific knowledge, but because conflict, inequity, collapsing vaccination systems, and political fragility continue to erode the foundations of public health,” the co-authors write. (Similar coverage in World Socialist Web Site.)

Read article—A parenting column by Miriam Voran, a clinical assistant professor of psychiatry, discusses the importance of unstructured play in children’s emotional and social development, including for their mental health. “Through play, children practice emotion regulation, self-control, social skills and problem-solving,” says Voran. “Play is a child’s work; it’s their path to growth.”

Read article—Features Nick Jacobson, an associate professor of biomedical data science and psychiatry, discussing the development of an AI therapy chatbot designed to support mental health care. “One of the things that’s exciting about this type of generative AI… is that it’s accessible all the time,” Jacobson said.