Healthcare & Life Sciences

Pancreatic Cancer Detection Kit - Toray Industries

The European Patent Office published application EP3988668A2 for a kit and method detecting early-stage pancreatic cancer and precursor lesions. Applicants are Toray Industries, Inc. and the National Cancer Center. The application covers all EPC contracting states (AL, AT, BE, BG, CH, CY, CZ, DE, DK, EE, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, HR, HU, IE, IS, IT, LI, LT, LU, LV, MC, MK, MT, NL, NO, PL, PT, RO, RS, SE, SI, SK, SM, TR). The technology uses genetic detection methods classified under C12Q 1/68.

Bisdemethoxycurcumin Compositions for Managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (EP4090340A1)

The European Patent Office published patent application EP4090340A1, filed by Sami-Sabinsa Group Limited, covering compositions comprising bisdemethoxycurcumin for managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The patent names Muhammed Majeed, Kalyanam Nagabhushanam, Sarang Bani, and Anjali Pandey as inventors. The application is classified under A61K 31/12 (ketone-based therapeutic compositions) with designations across 37 European contracting states including all EU member states.

Hydrogels Cultured Meat Production Patent EP4100445A1

The European Patent Office granted Patent EP4100445A1 to Mosa Meat B.V. for hydrogels used in cultured meat production. The invention covers biomaterial compositions (C08B 37/00, C08L 5/04) and methods for culturing animal cells (C12N 5/00, C12N 5/077). The patent is valid in 31 designated contracting states including major markets across the EU, UK, Switzerland, Norway, and Turkey.

Soluble ENPP1 or ENPP3 Proteins and Uses Thereof

The European Patent Office published application EP4162036A1 for BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. and Yale University covering soluble ENPP1 or ENPP3 proteins and their uses. The patent application was published April 8, 2026 with A1 designation (first publication with European search report). The application designates all European contracting states including AL, AT, BE, BG, CH, CY, CZ, DE, DK, EE, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, HR, HU, IE, IS, IT, LI, LT, LU, LV, MC, MK, MT, NL, NO, PL, PT, RO, RS, SE, SI, SK, SM, and TR.

Anti-TIGIT Antibodies and Usage Method

The European Patent Office published patent application EP4089115A1 titled 'Anti-TIGIT Antibodies and Usage Method' filed by Shanghai Henlius Biotech, Inc. The patent covers anti-TIGIT antibodies and their usage methods, classified under C07K 16/28 with applications in cancer treatment (A61P 35/00). The application designates 34 European member states including DE, FR, GB, IT, ES, NL, and CH.

Boosting Homology Directed Repair in Plants (EP4172340A1)

The EPO has granted patent EP4172340A1 to KWS SAAT SE & Co. KGaA for methods of boosting homology directed repair in plants. The patent application (C12N 15/82) was published on April 8, 2026, with inventor Yu Mei. This establishes intellectual property rights in designated European states for agricultural biotechnology applications.

EP4139921A1 - Method and System for Identifying Candidate Immunogenic Protein Regions for Vaccine Development

The European Patent Office published application EP4139921A1 for NEC OncoImmunity AS, covering a computational method and system for identifying candidate regions of source proteins predicted to instigate an immunogenic response. The invention has applications in vaccine development and creates enforceable patent rights across 36 designated European member states.

PCSK9 Antagonist Patent Application by Argonaute RNA Limited

The European Patent Office published application EP4081642A1 for Argonaute RNA Limited, covering RNA-based antagonists of PCSK9 (Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9). Inventors are Daniel Mitchell and Michael Khan. The patent is classified under IPC C12N 15/113 and designates all contracting states of the European Patent Convention.

EP4127152A1 - Methods for Identifying Genomic DNA Bound to Protein

EPO published patent application EP4127152A1 for Altius Institute for Biomedical Sciences and The Brigham & Women's Hospital, Inc. The invention covers methods, compositions, and kits for identifying regions of genomic DNA bound to a protein. The application was published under the A1 publication kind code on April 8, 2026.

Lentiviral Vectors Patent - Oxford BioMedica (UK) Limited EP4118217A1

The European Patent Office published patent application EP4118217A1 for Oxford BioMedica (UK) Limited covering lentiviral vectors (IPC C12N 15/86). Jordan Wright is listed as the inventor. The patent designates all listed European member states including DE, FR, GB, IT, ES, NL, BE, CH, and others. Patent grants provide exclusive commercial rights to the holder.

PIP Framework Marks 15 Years of Global Health Equity

The WHO published a commemorative message marking the 15th anniversary of the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework, adopted by the World Health Assembly in May 2011. The PIP Framework is described as the world's first functioning global access and benefit-sharing system for public health, promoting timely sharing of pandemic-potential influenza viruses and equitable distribution of resulting vaccines, antivirals, and diagnostics. Over 15 years, the Partnership Contribution has supported capacity strengthening in 86 countries across all six WHO regions, spanning laboratory and surveillance, regulatory functions, risk communications, community engagement, pandemic planning, and disease burden assessment.

Expanded Access to Investigational Drugs for Treatment Use: Questions and Answers

FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research issued guidance (Docket FDA-2013-D-0446) clarifying expanded access regulations for investigational drugs under 21 CFR part 312, subpart I, addressing frequently asked questions from industry, researchers, physicians, institutional review boards, and patients. The guidance incorporates statutory requirements from the 21st Century Cures Act and FDA Reauthorization Act of 2017. The document is available for ongoing public comment through the regulations.gov docket system.

Draft Compliance Policy for NIOSH-Approved Respirators Under 21 CFR 878.4040 and 880.6260

FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) has issued draft guidance establishing a proposed compliance policy for respirators approved by CDC NIOSH under 42 CFR part 84. The draft applies to surgical N95 respirators and other NIOSH-approved air-purifying respirators, including PAPRs, non-powered FFRs, elastomeric respirators, and FFRs for general public use in public health emergencies. FDA seeks public comments on the compliance policy by June 19, 2026.

Nurse-Led Nutrition and Exercise Program for Hemodialysis Patients

NIH registered a randomized controlled trial (NCT07535957) evaluating a nurse-led integrated nutrition and exercise intervention for hemodialysis patients. The study will compare structured nutritional counseling and supervised exercise against usual care, measuring quality of life improvements over a follow-up period.

Aloe Vera-Peppermint Gel Pressure Injury Prevention ICU Randomized Controlled Trial

NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registered a randomized controlled trial (NCT07537101) evaluating whether combined Aloe Vera-Peppermint gel application reduces pressure injury incidence compared to standard hospital nursing care among ICU patients. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the gel intervention or standard care. The trial targets adult ICU patients at risk for pressure injuries (bedsores).

Predictors & Mechanisms of Adolescent PTSD - Early Phase 1 Clinical Trial NCT07537764

The NIH registered Early Phase 1 clinical trial NCT07537764 on ClinicalTrials.gov to study biobehavioral predictors and mechanisms of PTSD response in trauma-exposed adolescents. The study will assess brain activity, physiological responses, and behavior during experimental tasks involving threat reactivity, emotion regulation, and script-driven imagery. Findings may inform future exposure-based intervention development for adolescent PTSD.

EBV Reactivation Longitudinal Cohort Study, 100 Adults, 18-29, Australia

NIH registered observational cohort study NCT07536048 on ClinicalTrials.gov tracking EBV reactivation in 100 EBV seropositive adults aged 18-29 years in Australia. The prospective longitudinal study will follow participants over 6-12 months with no study interventions. Participants will undergo immunological and clinical data collection at designated study centers.

Impact of PDT and Topical Corticosteroids on Taste Perception in Patients With OLP

NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registered a new comparative effectiveness study (NCT07536737) evaluating photodynamic therapy versus topical corticosteroids for treating oral lichen planus and their effects on taste perception. The randomized controlled trial will enroll patients receiving either 5-Amino Levulinic Acid-based PDT or Clobetasol Propionate 0.05% Cream, assessing taste recognition and lesion outcomes. Study findings may inform clinical treatment selection for OLP patients experiencing taste disturbances.

Correlation Between Smartphone Addiction, Sleep Problems and Body Mass Index in School Age Children

NIH registered an observational study (NCT07536334) on ClinicalTrials.gov examining the relationship between smartphone addiction, sleep problems, and BMI in school-age children. The study is an observational cohort with no interventions. Conditions include obesity, overweight, and sleep disorders. No compliance obligations are created by this study registration.

Group Music Therapy Pilot, Emotional Health, Long-Term Care

This is a ClinicalTrials.gov registration for a pilot study (NCT07536360) evaluating group music therapy's effects on emotional health among long-term care residents. The study will also assess the feasibility of using AI-based facial emotion recognition technology (PaLI Gemma 2 multimodal model) alongside traditional self-reported emotional health questionnaires. Participants will attend six 60-minute weekly sessions with pre/post assessments.

Method for Preparing Polydopamine Nanomotor Using Urease and Use of Same

USPTO granted Patent US12599571B2 to POSTECH Research and Business Development Foundation for a biocompatible polydopamine nanomotor using urease. The nanomotor is designed to infiltrate bladder walls in biological environments and remain inside the bladder for extended periods. The patent includes 10 claims covering the preparation method and therapeutic applications.

Shapiro Administration's Work to Combat STIs Leads to Dramatic Decrease in Reportable Diseases

The Pennsylvania Department of Health announced a 28% decrease in congenital syphilis cases from 2024 to 2025, with 90% of syphilis patients receiving treatment within 14 days. Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen highlighted free STI testing, treatment, and counseling available at all 59 State Health Centers during STI Awareness Week.

National Survey of Health Information Exchange Organizations (HIO) - 60-Day Comment Request

HHS ONC is requesting public comment on a revised information collection for the National Survey of Health Information Exchange Organizations (HIO). The survey (OMB No. 0955-0019) collects data on HIO capabilities including technical standards adoption, information blocking perceptions, TEFCA connectivity, public health data exchange, and organizational demographics. This 3-year approval request revises a survey previously approved in 2022 and 2024, removing low-relevance questions and updating wording to align with current policy priorities. Comments are due June 22, 2026.

Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

CMS published a notice announcing two information collection requests under the Paperwork Reduction Act: (1) an extension of CMS-10242 covering Emergency Ambulance Transports and Beneficiary Signature requirements (affecting 10,278 respondents, 9,265,931 annual responses), and (2) a reinstatement of CMS-1771 covering Emergency and Foreign Hospital Services claims under 42 CFR 424.103. The notice invites public comment on burden estimates and information collection aspects. Comments must be received by the OMB desk officer by May 20, 2026.

CMS-10950 Acute Hospital Care at Home Waiver Information Collection Request

CMS published a Paperwork Reduction Act notice announcing an opportunity for public comment on a new information collection request (OMB Control No. 0938-1384) related to the Acute Hospital Care at Home (AHCAH) waiver program. The collection covers submission requirements for hospitals seeking AHCAH waivers that allow at-home acute hospital-level care. To date, 433 hospitals have submitted waiver requests with 396 approved. Comments are due June 22, 2026.

Vonoprazan vs Esomeprazole H. pylori Eradication Phase 4 Study

NIH registered a Phase 4 clinical trial (NCT07537634) comparing vonoprazan-based levofloxacin-containing triple therapy versus esomeprazole-based levofloxacin-containing triple therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication in adults with dyspepsia. The randomized open-label study will randomly assign participants to 14-day treatment regimens with follow-up stool antigen testing at 4 weeks post-therapy to assess eradication efficacy and adverse effects.

Observational Study: Respiration Measured Via End-Tidal CO2 and Spirometry

NIH's ClinicalTrials.gov registered an observational study (NCT07537478) titled RESPI to collect respiration data via end-tidal CO2 and spirometry and compare the two measurement methods. The study focuses on respiration rate detection conditions using wearable respiration masks as interventions. This is a registry entry for an observational clinical study with no immediate compliance obligations.

Effectiveness of Autobrush® Versus Manual Toothbrush Among Adolescents With Fixed Orthodontic Appliances

NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registered a randomized crossover clinical trial (NCT07537790) comparing the effectiveness of Autobrush® U-shaped automatic toothbrush versus conventional manual toothbrush in reducing dental plaque among adolescents aged 12-15 with fixed orthodontic appliances. The study will measure Full Mouth Plaque Score (FMPS) as the primary outcome and is being conducted at KAUD in Saudi Arabia.

Characterization of JAK1 and JAK2 Activation in Gingival Tissues During Homeostasis and Periodontitis

The NIH registered ClinicalTrials.gov study NCT07536204, an observational study examining JAK1/2 pathway activation in gingival tissues from adults with healthy gingiva and those with periodontitis. The study aims to determine whether the JAK1/2 pathway is overactivated in periodontitis compared to health. Participants will donate gingival tissue for analysis.

Testing Non-Nutrition Menu Labels on Food Selections

NIH registered clinical trial NCT07536126 testing the effects of environmental harm menu label designs on the healthfulness of fast-food meal choices. The randomized study will have participants complete hypothetical online meal ordering tasks across five labeling conditions to assess impacts on healthfulness, nutrient content, and price. Secondary outcomes include label noticeability and consumer perceptions across conditions.

Phase 1 Aclarubicin CAOP Trial for Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma

NIH registered Phase 1 trial NCT07535710 on ClinicalTrials.gov evaluating Aclarubicin combined with Cyclophosphamide, Vincristine, and Prednisone (CAOP) in patients with previously treated Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma. The study aims to determine maximum tolerated dose, safety, and efficacy of the regimen. Aclarubicin is an anthracycline antibiotic notable for lacking cardiotoxicity compared to traditional anthracyclines like doxorubicin.

Xeomin and Tadalafil Phase 2 ED Trial

NIH registered a Phase 2 clinical trial (NCT07537855) evaluating intracavernosal incobotulinumtoxinA (Xeomin, 100 Units) combined with tadalafil for treating mild-moderate erectile dysfunction in approximately 30 million affected men. The randomized crossover pilot study enrolls male participants to assess efficacy where PDE5 inhibitors alone may be insufficient. ClinicalTrials.gov study record posted April 17, 2026.

Intradermal Acupuncture Ocular Surface Facial Paralysis

The NIH has registered a clinical trial (NCT07537426) examining the efficacy of intradermal acupuncture for treating ocular surface diseases following intractable facial paralysis. The randomized controlled trial will compare active acupuncture intervention against sham-needle placebo, with the primary endpoint measured by Ocular Surface Disease Index score reduction.

Inulin-Spirulina Co-intervention for Insomnia Disorder

NIH National Library of Medicine registered a clinical trial (NCT07537192) on ClinicalTrials.gov investigating inulin and spirulina dietary supplements as co-interventions for insomnia disorder in adults aged 18 to 60 years. The 12-week randomized controlled trial will enroll participants in four arms (inulin, spirulina, combined, placebo) and measure sleep quality, mood, anxiety, and cognitive outcomes. Researchers will monitor adverse events and collect polysomnography and biospecimen data at baseline and week 12.

NIH Clinical Center Research Hospital Board Meeting Notice

The NIH Office Director announces a hybrid meeting of the NIH Clinical Center Research Hospital Board on June 12, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held at NIH Building 31, Conference Room 6C02 A & B, Bethesda, MD, and virtually via NIH Videocast. The agenda includes NIH and Clinical Center Leadership Announcements, an update from the CC Acting CEO on recent activities and organizational priorities, and other board business. The meeting is open to the public.

Center for Scientific Review Notice of 11 Closed Meetings

The National Institutes of Health published a notice announcing 11 closed meetings of the Center for Scientific Review in May 2026. The meetings will review and evaluate grant applications across various research areas including biomedical informatics, blood-brain barrier studies, bacterial virulence, and clinical trials. Meetings are closed to the public under the Federal Advisory Committee Act provisions.

Notice of Diabetes Mellitus Interagency Coordinating Committee Meeting

The NIH announces a meeting of the Diabetes Mellitus Interagency Coordinating Committee (DMICC) on June 24, 2026, from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. EDT. The virtual meeting will focus on 'Innovative Research Partnerships in Diabetic Retinal Disease: Insights and Opportunities' and is open to the public. Individuals interested in presenting oral comments must notify the contact person at least 5 days in advance.

Center for Scientific Review Notice of Closed Meetings

The NIH Center for Scientific Review published a Federal Register notice announcing seven closed meetings scheduled between May 19 and June 9, 2026. The meetings involve Special Emphasis Panels and Integrated Review Groups reviewing grant applications and contract proposals for research including diabetes, infectious diseases, neurology, cancer, and clinical studies. Meetings are closed pursuant to the Government in the Sunshine Act to protect confidential trade secrets, commercial property, and personal information of grant applicants. The notice satisfies the Federal Advisory Committee Act requirement for advance notice of closed advisory committee meetings.

National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research Advisory Council Meeting Notice

NIH's National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research announces a meeting of the National Advisory Dental and Craniofacial Research Council on May 19-20, 2026, in Bethesda, MD and virtual format. The closed session on May 19 will review grant applications; the open session on May 20 will include the Director's report and concept clearances. A backup meeting is scheduled for July 9, 2026.

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Council Meeting Notice

The NIH National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke has announced a public meeting of the National Advisory Neurological Disorders and Stroke Council on May 20, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The virtual meeting will include reports from the Acting Director, program updates on HEAL and Small Business programs, and an overview of intramural activities. Interested persons may submit written comments to the Contact Person at least 10 days in advance of the meeting.

NCATS Advisory Council Meeting Notice May 21-22

The NIH National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) has published notice of its Advisory Council meeting scheduled for May 21-22, 2026. The closed session on May 21 will review grant applications, while the open session on May 22 will cover the Center Director's report, program updates, and concept clearances. The meeting will be held at NCI Shady Grove in Rockville, MD, with virtual access available.

NIEHS Partially Closed Meeting Notice - National Advisory Environmental Health Sciences Council

NIEHS published notice of a partially closed meeting of the National Advisory Environmental Health Sciences Council on June 24, 2026. The meeting includes open sessions on microplastics research, environmental health sciences programs, and health/weather research coordination. A closed session from 4:00-6:00 p.m. will review grant applications under FOIA exemption provisions. Interested persons may submit written comments or request to present oral comments to the committee.

Establishing Impurity Specifications for Antibiotics Draft Guidance

FDA announced availability of draft guidance titled 'Establishing Impurity Specifications for Antibiotics,' providing recommendations for establishing specifications for organic impurities in antibiotics manufactured by fermentation and semi-synthesis. The draft guidance applies to antibiotic drugs subject to approval under NDAs, ANDAs, and associated type II drug substance DMFs, as well as OTC monograph antibiotic drugs. Comments are due by June 22, 2026.

Compliance Policy Regarding Premarket and Other Requirements for Certain NIOSH Approved Air-Purifying Respirators

FDA announced draft guidance providing a proposed compliance policy for respirators approved by CDC NIOSH under 42 CFR part 84, including surgical N95 respirators, PAPRs, reusable elastomeric respirators, and FFRs for general public use during public health emergencies. Once finalized, the guidance is intended to facilitate more efficient and effective use of resources consistent with least burdensome device policies.

Potential New Indication for Testosterone Replacement Therapy

FDA announced it has reviewed published literature suggesting testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be safe and effective for treating low libido in men with decreased libido associated with idiopathic hypogonadism. The Agency encourages holders of approved TRT new drug applications to contact FDA by April 30, 2026, for information on submitting a supplemental NDA for this potential new indication.

GEN-AL-RF Trial: Genicular Nerve RF Ablation vs Alcohol Neurolysis for Knee Osteoarthritis Pain

The NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registry has published NCT07537335, a randomized controlled trial comparing genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation to neurolytic alcohol injection for managing chronic knee pain in osteoarthritis patients. The 6-month study will assess pain intensity using the Numeric Rating Scale, physical function via WOMAC scores, and quality of life through SF-12 metrics. Results aim to provide comparative effectiveness evidence for these interventional pain management techniques.

Sintilimab Plus Lenvatinib Phase 3 Trial for Oligo-Extrahepatic Metastatic Hepatocellular Carcinoma

The NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registry published a Phase 3 study (NCT07537946) evaluating sintilimab plus lenvatinib with or without consolidative therapy in patients with oligo-extrahepatic metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma. The randomized 1:1 trial enrolls participants who achieved disease control after 4 induction cycles. The primary endpoint is overall survival.

EENC Clinical Trial: 162 Mother-Baby Pairs, Shaikh Zayed Hospital, Pakistan

NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registered study NCT07535684 examining Early Essential Newborn Care (EENC) versus routine postnatal care. The single-center trial enrolled 162 mother-baby pairs at Shaikh Zayed Hospital, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan. EENC interventions include immediate drying, skin-to-skin contact, delayed cord clamping, thermal care, and breastfeeding initiation within one hour. The study assesses newborn outcomes including early breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding at 7 days, hypothermia, hypoglycemia, NICU admission, and maternal outcomes.

Surgery Plus Systemic Therapy for Liver Cancer With Extrahepatic Metastases

NIH ClinicalTrials.gov has registered NCT07537959, a randomized trial evaluating whether adding primary tumor resection to standard immune-based systemic therapy improves survival in hepatocellular carcinoma patients with extrahepatic metastases. The study will enroll approximately 252 participants and measure overall survival as the primary endpoint.

Benmelstobart Plus Anlotinib Combined With SBRT for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registered Phase 2 trial NCT07537777 evaluating Benmelstobart plus anlotinib combined with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) in patients with oligometastatic hepatocellular carcinoma who have failed first-line targeted therapy. The prospective, single-arm, multicenter study will assess progression-free survival, objective response rate, disease control rate, overall survival, and treatment safety. Eligible patients receive anlotinib 10mg on days 1-14 every 3 weeks plus Benmelstobart 1200mg on day 1 every 3 weeks combined with SBRT.