CRISPR to cure sickle cell; FDA rejected; Stem cells use; Celgene spinoff

Rice University researchers tested CRISPR to cure sickle cell, now preparing for upcoming challenges

A team of Researchers led by Rice University has recently tested CRISPR to correct the sickle cell mutation in up to 40% of the total stem cell samples taken from affected patients. Although the results are quite promising, it also highlights the challenges that must be cleared before the gene editing therapy can become a reliable and effective option for patients with blood disorders.

FDA rejected the Apricus Biosciences’ erectile dysfunction cream for the second time

For the second time, FDA has issued a complete response letter and rejected the Apricus Biosciences’ highly anticipated drug (Vitaros) meant for topical erectile dysfunction (ED) drug, causing a major slump in its share price. Apricus stocks were on the rise over the last few days on anticipation of a positive verdict for its lead drug candidate, but after the letter from FDA, all the gains were wiped out within hours driving its shares down 73% into penny stock territory.

Generating immune attack against cancer by using stem cells

Scientists at Stanford University believe that Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can help the immune system to recognize and attack the cancer cells making them a prime candidate for regenerative medicine. They have even tested the concept in mouse models of breast cancer. When they injected mice with inactivated IPSCs, the animals’ immune systems initiated an attack against cancer and prevented relapse after tumors had been removed, as per the study published in the journal Cell Stem Cell.

Celgene spinoff celularity debuts with big names, holding big bucks for bright future

Celgene’s spinoff Celularity has recently bagged a considerable amount of funding with some of the biggest names in biotech and Silicon Valley for its work in cancer. Growing under the leadership of Dr. Bob Hariri (founder and CEO celularity) company has raised a whopping USD 250 million accelerating its placental cell-based treatment.