Health & Biotech

Scientists have successfully cloned two baby ferrets named Noreen and Antonia from cells frozen in 1988, marking a significant breakthrough in reviving the near-extinct black-footed ferret species. With a limited gene pool and facing threats like climate change, genetic diversity is crucial for their survival. The cloned ferrets, born last year, offer hope for the species’ future, following a failed attempt in 2020. Efforts to breed them are underway, signaling a positive step forward.

A recent study by the Oregon Health Authority disproved conspiracy theories linking COVID-19 vaccines to cardiac deaths in young men. The study, published in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, found no evidence to support these claims. Despite only three cases of young men who received mRNA vaccines passing away, the data showed that underlying illnesses were the main cause. This research aims to combat vaccine misinformation and provide factual evidence against unfounded theories.

A Houston transplant surgeon faces allegations of altering patient database information to prevent his own patients from receiving liver transplants, resulting in some deaths. The surgeon, J. Steve Bynon, allegedly made changes to government records, prompting an investigation by Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center. The hospital confirmed irregularities in liver transplant waiting lists and shut down its liver and kidney programs. The US Department of Health and Human Services and United Network for Organ Sharing are also investigating the matter.

Decaf coffee lovers, brace yourselves: CNN reports that a chemical in decaf coffee could pose cancer risks. Methylene chloride, used to extract caffeine from coffee beans, is under scrutiny. While the FDA allows its use, health advocates urge for a ban due to potential health hazards. Alternative decaffeination methods, like the Swiss Water Process, offer safer options. So, if you’re sipping decaf, opt for organic or Swiss Water Process coffee for a worry-free cup. Cheers to a healthier brew!

During a small earthquake in the New York City area, Pennsylvania resident Justin Allen was undergoing a vasectomy when the tremors startled his surgeon, causing a brief pause in the procedure. Despite being awake under local anesthesia, Allen found the experience amusing and not worrisome due to his doctor’s thorough preparation. He later shared his unique ordeal on social media, while his wife humorously declared that it was a clear sign they should not have another child.

Verve Therapeutics, an experimental biotech startup, has halted the initial phase of a groundbreaking human gene-editing trial named “Heart-1” due to concerning side effects in a patient. This trial aimed to use gene editing to lower cholesterol levels in individuals with familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic disorder causing high LDL cholesterol and increased risk of heart attack. Despite setbacks, Verve remains hopeful, pivoting to a new trial with improved drug delivery for potential life-saving gene therapies.

Costco, the reigning champ of the $1.50 hot dog and colossal-sized products, now offers weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Through an online consultation with Sesame, shoppers can access these drugs, boosting their popularity. Despite its irony, Costco’s move caters to the demand for weight loss solutions in a country where obesity is prevalent. Besides weight loss, these medications may offer additional health benefits, although side effects like stomach problems can occur. Novo Nordisk is even developing a potentially more effective weight loss pill called amycretin, which could hit Costco’s shelves in the future.

LyGenesis, a biotech company, has achieved a breakthrough by dosing a human patient with liver cells in a Phase 2a clinical trial to transform a lymph node into a functional liver. The treatment offers hope for the millions suffering from end-stage liver disease, as transplants are limited. By utilizing lymph nodes as bioreactors, the treatment aims to alleviate the organ supply-demand imbalance. Uncertainties remain, but the potential impact on patients is promising.