The first 3D-bioprinting of an active brain tumor opens up new possibilities in the field of cancer research and drug development. The 3D-printed tumor has its own microenvironment, providing a testing ground for drugs with conditions as close to the human brain as possible. “Approximately 90% of all experimental drugs fail at the clinical stage because the success achieved in the lab is not reproduced in patients,” says Prof. Satchi-Fainaro, noting how the previous means of tumor testing were unsatisfactory. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
