News

Taysha Launches Clinical Program to Test TSHA-102 Gene Therapy

Taysha Gene Therapies has launched the clinical development of TSHA-102, an investigational gene therapy for Rett syndrome. The move follows the recent approval of a clinical trial application (CTA) by Health Canada. The Sainte-Justine Mother and Child University Hospital Center, in Montreal, will serve as the initial clinical…

Increased Education Crucial to Improving Rare Disease Care, Survey Finds

Healthcare providers involved in diagnosing and treating rare diseases believe that increased physician education and collaboration with specialized facilities will have the greatest positive impact on treating these conditions over the next five years, according to results from a 2021 survey. Definitive Healthcare, a healthcare commercial intelligence company, conducted…

Memory Recall in Rett Mice Improved By Activating Brain Cells

Scientists were able to improve memory recall in Rett syndrome mice by activating a set of inhibitory brain cells called somatostatin-expressing interneurons (SOM), in part by using a miniature microscope that allowed them to monitor the animals’ neurons. Deficiencies in the SOM nerve cells contributed to impairments in long-term…

Vitamin D Eases Behavior Problems in Rett Mouse Model

Supplementing with Vitamin D rescued the altered activity of genes associated with Rett syndrome and improved behaviors in a mouse model, a study showed. The findings indicate that supplementation could provide a simple, cost-effective therapeutic option to help Rett patients, the scientists said. The study, “Vitamin…

Physical Exercise Program Helps to Stop Scoliosis Progression, Study Finds

A six-month intensive and individualized exercise program prevented the progression of scoliosis, a sideways curvature of the spine, in most girls and women with Rett syndrome taking part in a study. In two young patients, the intervention completely corrected the spine’s curve. “This result is highly significant as no spontaneous scoliosis curve…

#RAREis Representation Program Promotes Equity, Diversity

Horizon Therapeutics has launched its #RAREis Representation program aimed at increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion among patients with rare diseases. There are about 400 million people worldwide living with a rare disease; for many of them, access to diagnosis, care, and treatments can be challenging. Accessing better care depends on…