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Researchers Create Cell-Level Wearable Devices to Rejuvenate Neuron Function

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Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have made a revolutionary breakthrough in the field of neuroscience with the development of cell-level wearable devices that could offer new hope for treating neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis (MS). These innovative micro-scale devices are designed to wrap around individual neurons, mimicking the natural myelin sheath to restore disrupted electrical signaling in neurodegenerative diseases. The devices are battery-free and powered by light, providing a non-invasive method to monitor and possibly modulate neuronal activity within the body.

Restoring Function with Synthetic Myelin

The groundbreaking technology involves soft polymer-based devices that can conform to the intricate shapes of axons and dendrites when exposed to specific wavelengths of light. This adaptability allows the devices to encase the neuronal structures without damaging delicate cellular components, making it a significant advancement for repairing nerve damage. Deblina Sarkar, the head of MIT’s Nano-Cybernetic Biotrek Lab, emphasizes the potential of these devices to create “symbiotic neural interfaces,” closely interacting with the neurons to restore their function. By wrapping around the axons—the neural wiring responsible for transmitting electrical impulses—the devices act as synthetic myelin, offering the possibility of repairing and rejuvenating damaged neurons.

Microelectronics Meets Biology

At the heart of these cell-wearable devices is azobenzene, a light-sensitive material. When activated by specific light wavelengths, azobenzene films transform into microtubes that securely wrap around neuronal structures. This highly specialized material and the novel fabrication method allow for precise control over the devices’ interaction with the neurons. According to Marta J. I. Airaghi Leccardi, lead author of the study and a Novartis Innovation Fellow, the team has developed a scalable technique to produce thousands of these devices without the need for a semiconductor cleanroom. This breakthrough opens the door to mass production, making it possible to create affordable and accessible therapies for patients with neurological disorders.

Implications for Therapeutic Applications

The potential applications of these cell-level wearable devices are vast. Beyond the treatment of MS, they could help patients with a variety of neurodegenerative conditions by restoring lost functions at the cellular level. By enabling more precise and localized interventions, these devices could offer targeted treatments that are both effective and minimally invasive. As the technology matures, it could lead to new, revolutionary ways to treat nerve damage, offering hope to millions of people living with conditions that impair neuronal function.

Biogen Surpasses Q2 Expectations and Raises Outlook as Alzheimer’s Drug Leqembi and New Products Drive Growth

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Biogen reported second-quarter earnings and revenue that exceeded estimates, leading to an increase in the company’s full-year guidance. The improved outlook is attributed to the successful implementation of cost-cutting measures and stronger-than-expected sales of the Alzheimer’s drug Leqembi and other new products. Biogen now projects full-year adjusted earnings to be between $15.75 and $16.25 per share, up from the previous forecast of $15 to $16 per share.

Despite expecting a slight decline in 2024 sales, Biogen is optimistic about its growth prospects. Leqembi, developed in partnership with Eisai, has shown promising sales figures, generating approximately $40 million in Q2, surpassing the $31 million expected by analysts. This is a significant increase from the $10 million in sales reported last year. However, Leqembi faces regulatory challenges in Europe due to concerns about brain swelling and bleeding risks, which Biogen is currently addressing.

CEO Chris Viehbacher expressed confidence in the company’s new product launches, noting that all are performing in line with or ahead of expectations. Biogen aims to achieve $1 billion in gross cost savings by 2025, with $800 million in net savings. These savings will allow the company to reinvest in new product launches and essential research and development projects.

In addition to Leqembi, Biogen’s acquisition of Reata Pharmaceuticals has brought Skyclarys into its portfolio, which reported $100 million in Q2 sales, exceeding the $92.3 million anticipated by analysts. Skyclarys, approved by the FDA last year, is the first treatment for Friedreich’s ataxia. The company plans to market Skyclarys in 20 countries by the end of the year.

Zurzuvae, the first oral treatment for postpartum depression, also performed well, with Q2 sales of $14.9 million, beating the expected $11 million. However, Biogen’s multiple sclerosis treatments saw a 5% decline in sales, totaling $1.15 billion, due to competition from generics. Despite this, some treatments, like Tecfidera, managed to generate higher-than-expected revenue.