Latest Health News
Kenai Therapeutics Secures $8M CIRM Grant for Parkinson's Neuron Therapy
Kenai Therapeutics received an $8 million grant from California's CIRM on January 5, 2026, to advance RNDP-001, an allogeneic neuron replacement therapy for idiopathic Parkinson's disease. The therapy, with FDA Fast Track designation, is in Phase 1 trials evaluating safety and brain imaging in 12 patients, with data expected in 2026.
CEO Nick Manusos emphasized its potential to restore motor function by replacing lost dopamine neurons.
CRISPR Breakthrough Activates Genes Without DNA Cutting for Sickle Cell Treatment
UNSW Sydney researchers developed a CRISPR method that removes methyl groups to turn on genes like fetal globin without cutting DNA, reducing cancer risk in gene therapy. This epigenetic editing targets Sickle Cell diseases by reactivating fetal globin in blood stem cells for healthier red blood cells.
Lab tests in human cells show promise for safer treatments beyond Sickle Cell.
Australia Invests $280M in Health Research Including Bowel Cancer Microbiome Project
The Albanese Government announced nearly $280 million for 190 NHMRC Ideas Grants on innovative health projects, including gut bacteria research for bowel cancer prevention. Associate Professor Susan Woods' team at University of Adelaide will test microbiome shifts as biomarkers and develop bacterial therapeutics.
The funding aims to drive discoveries in prevention and care across diverse health challenges.
ProMED Reports Plague Fatality in Madagascar
A fatal plague case was reported in Amoron'i Mania, Madagascar, on January 1, 2026, amid ongoing global infectious disease monitoring. Plague remains a public health concern in the region with historical endemic patterns.
ProMED provides early warnings for emerging threats like this.
US Influenza Surge: 29 States with Increased Cases and Hospitalizations
Influenza cases and hospitalizations are rising across 14 US reports, affecting 29 states as of December 31, 2025. This includes H3N2 sub-clade K detections.
Health authorities monitor the seasonal uptick closely.
Measles Cases Detected in US South Carolina and Airports
Measles outbreaks are active in the USA, including South Carolina and detections at airports, prompting epidemiological alerts on January 1, 2026. Spanish reports highlight ongoing cases requiring vigilance.
Vaccination remains key to containment.
Avian Influenza H5N1 Confirmed in India Kerala Poultry
H5N1 avian influenza led to poultry culling in Kerala, India, reported January 1, 2026. This outbreak underscores risks to animal and potentially human health.
Control measures are implemented to limit spread.
QIMR Berghofer Grants for Mosquito-Borne Diseases and Iron Deficiency
QIMR Berghofer researchers received NHMRC Ideas Grants for studies on mosquito-borne disease prevention and iron deficiency treatments. These address critical global health challenges through cutting-edge research.
Funding supports innovative solutions for widespread issues.
Neuralink Poaches FDA Official Amid Brain Implant Debates
Neuralink hired a top FDA official from its regulating office, surprising brain-computer interface competitors on January 5, 2026. The move raises questions on Neuralink's focus: aiding paralysis patients or pursuing transhumanist AI visions.
BCI shows promise for ALS and paralysis despite hype concerns.
Genetic Variant Protects Against Blood Cancer Risk and Progression
A newly identified inheritable genetic variant offers protection against blood cancer development and progression, reported January 1, 2026. This AAAS finding could inform risk assessment and therapies.
Research highlights genetic factors in cancer resilience.
HIV Cases Rising Among Elderly in China
Increased HIV/AIDS cases in elderly people noted in China as of December 31, 2025. This trend signals shifting epidemiology requiring targeted interventions.
Surveillance tracks non-traditional demographics.
Botulism Confirmed from Pickled Food in Argentina
Four botulism cases linked to pickled food confirmed in La Pampa, Argentina, on January 1, 2026. Food safety alerts emphasize risks from home-preserved products.
Prompt treatment critical for outcomes.