A new biotech to tackle mental illness
Israel’s Syremis Therapeutics develops treatments for severe mental illness. Its ST-905 is a potent M1/M4 muscarinic agonist for schizophrenia and other serious neuropsychiatric conditions, currently in Phase 1 trials. Also ST-901 for major depressive disorder and bipolar depression.
Reducing the risk of PTSD
A study by Tel Aviv University researchers, the IDF Medical Corps, and the US Department of Defense has found that out of more than 500 soldiers, just 1% of those who participated in the attention-training computer-based training program developed PTSD, compared to 5.3% in the control group.
Nil by mouth
36-year-old Daniel Haim Biton hasn’t eaten anything for 17 years, relying on nutrients fed intravenously into the bloodstream. Surgeons at Israel’s Rabin (Beilinson) medical center performed a rare and complex intestinal transplant. If it is not rejected, Daniel plans to become a chef.
Regenerating soft tissue
Israel’s Nurami Medical, a company developing next-generation regenerative solutions for soft tissue repair, has announced successful completion of Phase 1 of its EIC-funded grant for Artifix®, a synthetic, biomimetic, dural repair adhesive patch, its second portfolio product.
Researching into child cancer
12-year-old Aryeh Natanel Kluger (z”l) passed away from brain cancer in 2023. His parents founded the Aryeh Kluger Fund which has led to the creation of the ARI-PST Hub at Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem. It aims to make breakthroughs in pediatric brain tumor research.
Ultrasound machines help save Jamaican lives
The Israeli medical delegation that flew to Jamaica assisted local doctors in the aftermath of Hurricane Mellisa. They brought ultrasound equipment which they donated to two hospitals and trained staff to operate them. Patients discharged from ER said “Hey Israel, thank you”.
Gala raises funds for Israeli mental health
Over 500 supporters attended the 20th Anniversary Gala of American Friends of NATAL (see previously) hosted by Michael Rapaport in New York City. A record number of tickets were sold raising vital funds for trauma care and spotlighting Israel’s mental health crises.
Why I don’t want to go on a diet
Scientists at Israel’s Ben-Gurion University have discovered that when obese middle-aged mice lose weight, it aggravates inflammation in the hypothalamus, a brain region that governs appetite, energy balance, and numerous essential functions. And I don’t want to stop eating cheese.
Learning doesn’t have to slow down with age
Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and at the Stanford Center for Longevity has proved that older adults learn best when education taps into their motivations, connects new knowledge to previous experience, and allows for active engagement.
Movember for men’s health
Throughout November, Israeli men were urged to get regular check-ups and screenings, and to lead healthier lifestyles. The Movember campaign began in Australia (Mo is Australian slang for moustache) and focuses on prostate cancer, testicular cancer, suicide prevention and men’s mental health.