3D compass in the brain
Scientists at Israel’s Weizmann Institute have demonstrated that brains of mammals (including humans) contain a 3D compass. Microelectrode recordings revealed that certain neurons activate only when the head is at a particular 3D angle. It explains conditions such as vertigo and disorientation.
Cell analysis system makes first discovery
Professor Itai Yanai of Israel’s Technion developed the CEL-Seq cell analysis method in 2012, identifying the on-off status of each of the 20,000 genes in a cell. It has just been used to determine embryonic development sequences and could help in understanding how cancer develops.
Breakthrough in development of artificial retinas
Scientists at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv University have developed a wireless, light-sensitive, flexible implantable film that mimics the function of the photosensitive cells in the retina. It could potentially form part of a device to replace a damaged retina.
Israeli MRI detects brain damage earlier
Researchers at Israel’s Ben Gurion University’s Brain Imaging Research Center have developed a method that can detect damage to the brain much earlier than previously thought. Detection, soon after a trauma, means that the damage might still be reversible.
Generic blood pressure treatment
Israel’s Teva has launched a generic version of Exforge HCT – a popular treatment of high blood pressure. Teva’s generic products save money for patients and health services.
Life expectancy rises again
In Israel in 2013, men had an average life expectancy of 80.3 years while women had 83.9 – an increase of nearly five months for men and three months for women in comparison to 2012.
50,000 wear Israeli remedial shoes
Israel’s AposTherapy has developed a treatment for knee and back pain using unique individually calibrated shoes. AposTherapy currently treats 50,000 patients and has just raised $15 million to help expand its business in the US market.
New test for foreign matter in lungs
(Thanks to San Diego Jewish World) Scientists at Tel Aviv University have developed a new technique for detecting hazardous particles in the lungs. The test can be used in emergencies such as fire rescues or as a warning of high pollution levels.
New cancer center is a communal success
(Thanks to Stuart) The Emek Medical Center in Afula, Israel is one of many successful stories showing how ethnic groups in Israel can successfully work side by side. Jews, Muslims, Christians and Druze raised funds together for a new cancer center, via an inspiring radio campaign.
Progress in treatment of Celiac disease
Back in Feb 2012 I reported good pre-clinical trials of Israeli biotech BioLineRX’s BL-7010 co-polymer for the treatment of celiac disease, for which there is currently no cure or formal treatment. BioLineRX has now announced successful final results from its Phase 1/2 study of BL-7010.