Healthcare & Life Sciences

Center for Scientific Review Notice of Closed Meetings

The National Institutes of Health Center for Scientific Review announces five closed virtual meetings scheduled for May 13-14, 2026. The meetings will review and evaluate grant applications and contract proposals for programs including Behavioral Neuroscience training, the REDS Program Brazil Field Center, Transfusion Laboratory Studies, and Research Enhancement Award programs. Meetings are closed pursuant to the Federal Advisory Committee Act to protect confidential trade secrets, commercial property, and personal information.

Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Pistachios - 155 Illnesses, 24 Hospitalizations

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is reporting an active Salmonella outbreak investigation linked to various brands of pistachios and pistachio-containing products. The outbreak has resulted in 155 reported illnesses and 24 hospitalizations across six provinces. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued food recalls for affected products.

HPTA Biosecurity Amendments Receive Royal Assent

The Public Health Agency of Canada announced that amendments to the Human Pathogens and Toxins Act (HPTA) received Royal Assent on March 27, 2026. The amendments modernize biosecurity oversight for scientific research by adding provisions for remote technology access to containment facilities, clarifying roles and responsibilities for regulated parties, improving security screening requirements, reducing incident reporting thresholds, and modernizing compliance and enforcement measures. Affected entities include universities, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and food industry quality control operations.

VIAP Launches April 1 for Vaccine Injury Support

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) announced it will begin administering the Vaccine Impact Assistance Program (VIAP) on April 1, 2026, replacing the third-party administrator Oxaro Inc. VIAP provides financial support to Canadians (except Quebec) who experienced serious and permanent injury from Health Canada authorized vaccines administered in Canada on or after December 8, 2020. PHAC will work to address the existing backlog of applications while improving consistency and transparency of the claims process.

E. coli O26 Outbreak Linked to Pillsbury Brand Pizza Pops

PHAC issued an update on an active E. coli O26 outbreak linked to certain Pillsbury brand Pizza Pops products. The outbreak has resulted in 29 illnesses across 7 provinces, with 7 hospitalizations and no deaths reported. A food recall is in effect for affected products, and PHAC advises consumers not to consume, use, sell, serve, or distribute the recalled items.

Dr. Joss Reimer Appointed Chief Public Health Officer for Three-Year Term

The Government of Canada appointed Dr. Joss Reimer as Chief Public Health Officer (CPHO) for a three-year term commencing April 1, 2026. Dr. Reimer succeeds Dr. Theresa Tam and brings extensive public health expertise including experience as past President of the Canadian Medical Association and Chief Medical Officer for the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. She takes the role at a time when Canada faces multiple public health challenges including measles resurgence, avian influenza A(H5N1), HIV, tuberculosis, and the illegal drug crisis.

Bispecific Anti-TRAILR2 and Anti-CDH17 Binding Molecules for Cancer Treatment - EP3559040A2

The EPO published patent application EP3559040A2, filed by Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, covering bispecific binding molecules that simultaneously target TRAILR2 (TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand receptor 2) and CDH17 (cadherin 17) for the treatment of cancer. The patent application was published on April 8, 2026 and is classified under IPC categories C07K 16/28, A61K 39/395, A61P 35/00, and C12N 15/62. The application designates all EPO contracting states covering major European pharmaceutical markets.

Fibrous Dosage Form EP3500242A1

The European Patent Office published patent application EP3500242A1 titled 'Fibrous Dosage Form' on April 8, 2026. The patent application, filed by applicant Aron H. Blaesi with inventors Blaesi and Nannaji Saka, covers pharmaceutical dosage formulations classified under IPC A61K. The application designates multiple European member states for patent protection.

EP3283091A1 - Berry Extraction Method Using Alkaline Magnesium Compound

The European Patent Office granted Patent EP3283091A1 to inventor Reijonen, Mika Tapio. The patent covers a method of extracting berries or fruits using an alkaline magnesium compound for use in pharmaceutical, herbal, nutritional, or cosmetic ingredients. The patent is valid in 38 designated European states.

Polyglutamated Antifolates and Uses Thereof (EP3496757A1)

The European Patent Office published patent application EP3496757A1 for polyglutamated antifolates and their therapeutic uses, filed by L.E.A.F Holdings Group LLC. The patent covers compositions for treating cancer and inflammatory conditions. The application was published April 8, 2026, designating 36 European states including Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and other EU member states. No compliance deadlines or penalties are specified.

Novel Recombinant Protein UK114 in Stable Polymer Form for Tumour Treatment

The European Patent Office granted Patent EP3554639A1 to Alberto Bartorelli Cusani for a novel recombinant protein UK114 in stable polymer form designed for the treatment or prevention of malignant solid and systemic tumours. The patent covers pharmaceutical compositions containing the recombinant protein and methods of treatment. The patent is classified under A61K 38/50 and related pharmaceutical categories.

TLR4 Antagonist Patent for Multiple Myeloma Treatment EP3558323A1

The European Patent Office granted patent EP3558323A1 for specific TLR4 antagonists in the treatment of multiple myeloma. The patent applicants include Etablissement Français du Sang, CNRS, Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III, and INSERM. Designated states cover all EU member states plus other EPC contracting states.

Bi-Specific Cancer Treatment Constructs with Different Epitope Binding

The European Patent Office published patent application EP3484516A1 assigned to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center on April 8, 2026. The patent covers bi-specific binding domain constructs with different epitope binding properties for treating cancer. The technology falls under IPC classifications A61K 39/395, C07K 16/28, and C12N 15/09, with designated states covering major European markets.

PHARMACEUTICAL COMPOSITIONS COMPRISING POH DERIVATIVES

The European Patent Office granted Patent EP3244930A1 to the University of Southern California on April 8, 2026. The patent covers pharmaceutical compositions comprising POH derivatives for therapeutic applications including cancer treatment. The patent is designated across 38 European member states including DE, FR, GB, IT, ES, NL, BE, and others.

Immunoglobulin antibody against RSV prefusion F protein, published 8th Apr

Immunoglobulin antibody against RSV prefusion F protein, published 8th Apr

UK NSC Privacy Notice on Personal Data

The UK National Screening Committee published a privacy notice explaining how it collects, uses, and shares personal data from individuals who subscribe to UK NSC recommendations or participate in public consultations. The notice details the types of personal data processed (name, email, job title, employer, opinions, and sensitive personal data), the legal basis for processing under UK GDPR Article 6(1)(e) and Article 9(2)(g), and data protection measures including security controls and staff training. Data may be shared with UK NSC secretariat staff, policy teams, and committee members.

Prostate Cancer Screening Consultation Closes

The UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC) announced that its 12-week public consultation on prostate cancer screening has closed as of 24 February 2026. The consultation sought feedback on a 2025 modelling study examining screening impacts across all men in the UK, Black men, men with BRCA1/BRCA2 variants, and men with relevant family cancer history. Submitted responses will be analysed at the committee's March meeting before a final recommendation is made to ministers.

Blood Spot Task Group Projects and Outputs Status Summary

The UK National Screening Committee published transparency data on Blood Spot Task Group (BSTG) projects and outputs on 9 February 2026, updated 18 March 2026. The BSTG focuses on generating practical outputs related to blood spot screening methodology and research. This publication summarises the status of BSTG projects and their outputs, including expected finish dates added to two ongoing projects. No new compliance obligations are created by this document.

UK NSC Meeting Agenda Covers Prostate, Bladder, and Targeted Screening

The UK National Screening Committee published its meeting agenda for 26 March 2026. The agenda included discussions on prostate cancer screening, bladder cancer screening, targeted screening workstreams, and an effectiveness review of the NHS Infectious Diseases in Pregnancy Screening Programme. No new screening recommendations or policy changes were announced.

UK NSC Public Consultations Guide, Current and Closed

The UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC) provides a guide to its public consultations on screening recommendations. Three consultations are currently open: antenatal hepatitis C screening (deadline June 3, 2026), newborn biliary atresia screening (deadline May 20, 2026), and targeted antenatal HTLV-1 screening (deadline May 13, 2026). Stakeholders and members of the public can submit comments via the UK NSC website.

Oligonucleotides for Inducing Paternal UBE3A Expression - Angelman Syndrome Treatment

USPTO granted patent US12596118B2 to Hoffmann-La Roche Inc. covering oligonucleotides capable of inducing expression of ubiquitin-protein ligase E3A (UBE3A) from the paternal allele for treatment of Angelman syndrome. The 30 claims target the suppressor of the UBE3A paternal allele via hybridization to SNHG14 long non-coding RNA downstream of SNORD109B.

Methods for Using Low-Dose Colchicine After Myocardial Infarction (EP3821909A1)

The European Patent Office published application EP3821909A1, titled 'Methods for Using Low-Dose Colchicine After Myocardial Infarction.' The application, filed by Institut de Cardiologie de Montréal, claims methods of treating patients with low-dose colchicine following myocardial infarction. The published application covers 38 designated European states.

INHIBITORS OF TRPC6 - Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH

The European Patent Office published patent application EP3752503A1 for TRPC6 inhibitors assigned to Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH. The patent covers therapeutic compounds for cardiovascular, respiratory, and neurological applications. The application designates all EPC contracting states including Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, and Spain.

Novel Anti-inflammatory Compounds - EP3759089A1

The European Patent Office published patent application EP3759089A1 for novel anti-inflammatory compounds developed by Inflazome Limited. The patent covers compounds classified under C07D 401/12 with therapeutic applications (A61P 29/00). Validated in designated contracting states including Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and other EU member states.

EP3759090A1 Novel Therapeutic Compounds by Inflazome Limited

The European Patent Office published patent application EP3759090A1 for novel therapeutic compounds filed by Inflazome Limited. The patent covers heterocyclic compounds with IPC classifications including C07D derivatives and A61P therapeutic activity (anti-inflammatory/analgesic). Designated states include all EU member states plus associated countries. The publication marks the grant of patent rights for these novel compounds.

Use of Chimeric Antigen Receptor-Modified T Cells to Treat Cancer

The European Patent Office granted Patent EP3660029A1 to The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania covering chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T cells for cancer treatment. The patent names inventors Carl H. June, Bruce L. Levine, David L. Porter, Michael D. Kalos, and Michael C. Milone. The patent covers methods for treating cancer using CAR-modified T cells, with designations extending across 35 European states.

TPEC Program Performance Measures Information Collection Request

HRSA announced a proposed Information Collection Request under the Paperwork Reduction Act for the Transforming Pediatrics for Early Childhood (TPEC) Program Performance Measures. The collection would require TPEC funding recipients to report standardized annual performance measures demonstrating program impact on young children and families served by TPEC-funded pediatric practices. Public comments on the burden estimate and other aspects of the collection are requested by June 15, 2026.

Intubation Device European Patent Application EP3397132A1

The European Patent Office published European patent application EP3397132A1 for an intubation device, filed by inventors Bartozzi, Lennon, and Keith. The patent application covers medical device technology classified under A61B and A61M IPC categories. The publication designates multiple European member states for patent protection.

Biocorp Production SAS - Dose Control System for Injectable-Drug Delivery Devices (EP3573687A1)

The European Patent Office published patent application EP3573687A1 for Biocorp Production S.A.S., covering a dose control system for injectable-drug delivery devices and associated methods of use. The patent application (filed under IPC classifications A61M 5/20 and A61M 5/315) was published April 8, 2026. The application designates all EU member states and extended states including Switzerland, Norway, and Turkey.

Medicament Injection Device - Sanofi-Aventis EP3532132A1

The European Patent Office granted Sanofi-Aventis Deutschland GmbH Patent EP3532132A1 for a medicament injection device. The patent application was published on April 8, 2026, with inventors including HALM, Markus. Designated states cover all EU member states plus other European countries.

EP3576821A1 Medication Delivery Assembly, Norton Healthcare

The European Patent Office published patent application EP3576821A1 for an assembly for a medication delivery device, filed by Norton Healthcare Limited. The application was published on April 8, 2026, under IPC classifications A61M 5/31 and A61M 5/315. The application designates multiple European states including Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, and Spain.

Fluid Drainage or Delivery Device for Treatment Site - Aroa Biosurgery EP3691737A1

The European Patent Office published patent application EP3691737A1 for Aroa Biosurgery Limited, covering a fluid drainage or delivery device for treatment sites. The invention includes claims for medical device components classified under A61M and A61L. The patent designates multiple European states including DE, FR, GB, IT, NL, ES, and others.

Therapeutic Exosomes Nanoelectroporation Patent EP3661485A1

The European Patent Office published patent application EP3661485A1 titled 'Method for Producing Therapeutic Exosomes from Nanoelectroporation and Other Non-Endocytic Cell Transfection.' The patent is assigned to Ohio State Innovation Foundation with inventors Lee Ly James, Shi Junfeng, and Yang Zhaogang. The invention relates to methods for producing therapeutic exosomes using nanoelectroporation and non-endocytic cell transfection techniques.

Sensor Enabled Wound Monitoring and Therapy Apparatus

The European Patent Office published application EP3454918A1 for Smith & Nephew plc on April 8, 2026. The patent covers a sensor enabled wound monitoring and therapy apparatus with IPC classifications A61B 5/00, A61F 13/05, A61F 13/00, and A61M 1/00. The application designates all relevant EPC contracting states including AT, BE, DE, ES, FR, GB, IT, NL, and others.

Syringe Assembly Packaging Patent, Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha

The European Patent Office published European patent application EP3431126A1 for Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha, covering a syringe assembly, syringe assembly packaging, and prefilled syringe. Inventors are Masafumi Takemoto and Hitoshi Okihara. The patent application is classified under IPC A61M 5/32 (syringes/injections) with designations extending to 31 European states including DE, FR, GB, IT, ES, NL, and others.

EP3558428A1 Medicament Delivery Device

The European Patent Office published EP3558428A1, a patent for a medicament delivery device filed by Sanofi-Aventis Deutschland GmbH. The patent was published on April 8, 2026, with inventors Verlaak and Melzi. The publication covers device mechanisms classified under A61M 5/315, A61M 5/145, and A61M 5/31.

Devices for Estimating Regional Metabolic Rate of Organs Based on Heat Generation and for Estimating Regional Blood Flow for Tissue Volume Perfused

EPO granted patent EP3244850A2 to Hybernia Medical LLC. The patent covers devices for estimating regional metabolic rate of organs based on heat generation and for estimating regional blood flow for volumes of tissue perfused. The invention relates to medical devices using thermal and blood flow measurements for organ analysis.

Brain Function Visual Effects Patent, Dragonfly Optics, 8th Apr

Brain Function Visual Effects Patent, Dragonfly Optics, 8th Apr

997 Measles Cases, No New Cases Since March - Outbreak Update

South Carolina DPH reports no new measles cases since March 17, keeping the Upstate outbreak total at 997. No individuals are currently in quarantine or isolation. If no new cases are reported, the outbreak will be declared over on April 26, following a 42-day period with no new cases.

Artri Ajo King Tablets Contain Undeclared Prescription Medicines

TGA Laboratory testing identified Artri Ajo King tablets as containing undeclared diclofenac and dexamethasone, both prescription-only medicines in Australia. The TGA has issued a safety advisory warning consumers to stop using the product and is coordinating with the Australian Border Force to seize and destroy shipments at the border. Supply of these products without declared prescription medicines is illegal under Australian therapeutic goods legislation.

Spevigo Authorization Transfer to LEO, Delayed Leaflet

Swissmedic notifies healthcare professionals that the marketing authorization for Spevigo (spesolimabum, authorization no. 68625) was transferred from Boehringer Ingelheim (Schweiz) GmbH to LEO Pharmaceutical Products Sarath Ltd. effective 02.03.2026. To prevent supply disruption, packages with outdated package leaflets remain in circulation until the reprint is completed. These leaflets have not yet been updated with the latest approved safety information.

Boil Water Advisory Issued for the City of Humboldt, Allen County

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Humboldt public water supply system in Allen County. The advisory was issued due to a loss of pressure, which may result in loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination. Customers should boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation, or use bottled water, until conditions are resolved and testing confirms safety.

Correction for Philips Trilogy Evo Platform Ventilators - Non-Pneumatic Nebulizer Restrictions

FDA issued a Class I recall for Philips Trilogy Evo Platform ventilators (models DS2110X11B, DS2200X11B, DS2100X11B, DS2000X11B) due to risks from non-pneumatic nebulizer use causing tidal volume discrepancies and potential therapy under-delivery. Affected parties must update all devices to software version 1.05.15.00 and stop all use of non-pneumatic nebulizers. Failure to correct devices may result in serious injury or death.

Stryker Updates Use Instructions for Patient-Fitted TMJ Reconstruction Prostheses

Stryker issued an urgent medical device correction for TMJ Unilateral and Bilateral Implants (catalogs CHG010, CHG024, CHG031, CHG020, CHG026, CHG032). The FDA identified this as the most serious recall type due to screw hole positioning discrepancies that may cause recommended screw lengths to exceed bone thickness, risking cranial vault penetration. One serious injury has been reported. Healthcare providers should continue monitoring patients per follow-up protocols and contact Stryker if affected devices remain in unused inventory.

New Drug Approvals February 2026

The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) Singapore announced new therapeutic product approvals granted in February 2026. The announcement lists newly approved therapeutic products and new indications approved for registered therapeutic products. Healthcare professionals and industry members are directed to the listing for details.

Singapore National Blood Programme Marks 80 Years

The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) and Singapore Red Cross marked the 80th anniversary of the National Blood Programme at a commemorative event. Minister for Health Ong Ye Kung announced new donor recognition initiatives including a Healthpoints programme launching in H2 2026 and the '80 for 80' Blood Donation Marathon to encourage corporate blood donation drives. HSA projects Singapore's blood demand could outstrip supply by 2035 as youth donations have declined by more than half over the past decade.

Welcome Speech at 80th Anniversary of National Blood Programme

HSA CEO Adj Prof (Dr) Raymond Chua delivered a welcome speech at the 80th anniversary of Singapore's National Blood Programme. The speech recognises donors, partners, and volunteers who have contributed to the programme since its establishment, as well as the ongoing partnership with the Singapore Red Cross. HSA's Blood Services Group and laboratory staff are commended for maintaining internationally recognised standards in transfusion medicine.

Shiseido Skin Glow Evaluation Method Patent EP3219302A1

The European Patent Office published Shiseido Company Ltd.'s patent application EP3219302A1 covering methods for evaluating skin glow, methods for examining skin glow improving agents, and skin glow improving compositions. The patent application was published on April 8, 2026, designating 37 European states including DE, FR, GB, IT, ES, and others. The application includes inventors Masuda Yuji, Yagi Eiichiro, and Kuwahara Tomohiro.

Long-Acting Injectable Formulations Comprising an Isoxazoline Active Agent (EP3261617A1)

The European Patent Office published European patent application EP3261617A1 for Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH covering long-acting injectable formulations comprising isoxazoline active agents. The application classifies under IPC codes A61K 31/422, A61K 31/42, A61K 9/00, and A01N 43/80. The application designates 36 European contracting states including Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and other EU member states.

Pharmaceutical Composition Comprising Lipoic Acid and Taurine as Osmoprotective Agent

The EPO granted Patent EP3297733A1 to Dulcis Health Science for a pharmaceutical composition combining lipoic acid and taurine as an osmoprotective agent. The patent, published April 8, 2026, lists inventors Claret, Martine, Claret, Claude, and Chatard-Baptist, Caroline, with designations covering all 31 European Patent Convention member states.