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As we approach the end of 2022, Gizmodo has shared what they consider to be the noteworthy achievements in the field of medicine from the past year. Although some of these groundbreaking studies are still in the experimental phase, they are seen as precursors to improving the quality of life, care, and survival prospects for patients. Below is the list of these breakthroughs for your reference.1. Transplanting Pig Organs to Humans
Many research groups are making significant strides in cross-species organ transplantation, known as xenotransplantation. They focus on genetically modifying pigs to closely match human genes, aiming to reduce rejection. Earlier this year, scientists at the University of Alabama became the first team to publish a study on transplanting two pig kidneys into a brain-dead patient. In March, a critically ill patient received a genetically modified pig heart transplant. Although the patient passed away two months later, it indicates that seemingly impossible feats are gradually becoming reality.2. Treating Hair Loss with JAK Cell Signaling Inhibition
This is a saga of restoring thick hair for those experiencing hair loss. In June, the FDA officially approved the use of baricitinib as a Janus kinase (JAK) cell signaling inhibitor for severe cases of hair loss. This year, the FDA also greenlit several JAK-related dermatological treatments. The upcoming months are expected to witness the completion of various studies, bringing this treatment method to a broader and more affordable market.3. Using Contact Lenses to Administer Medication
In March of this year, the FDA approved a type of contact lens not only to improve vision but also to deliver medication directly to the eye. This product is from Johnson & Johnson and is sold as part of the Acuvue brand specializing in eyewear, especially contact lenses. The medication released through the contact lens is ketotifen, a histamine-blocking drug that helps reduce the risk of eye pain due to allergies within 12 hours. While the initial application may seem straightforward, doctors hope that with advances in technology, administering this medication will help treat dangerous conditions such as cataracts or glaucoma. These are diseases that, if not treated promptly, can cause permanent blindness.4. Using Gene Therapy to Treat Blood Clotting Disorders
In November, the FDA approved the world's first treatment for Hemophilia B, a rare blood clotting disorder caused by a deficiency of Factor XI. The treatment, named Hemgenix, involves a single medication dose priced at a staggering $3.5 million per patient. Hemgenix aims to provide a functional gene copy to replace the malfunctioning genes in individuals with Hemophilia B. The primary challenge now is finding ways to reduce the cost to make it accessible to a broader population.5. Affordable Polypill Shows Promise in Clinical Trials for Heart Disease Prevention
The three-in-one heart medication, known as polypill, has successfully completed clinical trials, bringing hope to those at risk of heart attacks or strokes. Clinical trials conducted across various countries on individuals with a history of heart disease demonstrated its ability to prevent the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular diseases. Notably, the polypill comprises aspirin, atorvastatin, and the ACE inhibitor ramipril—all commonly used and cost-effective medications. This composition significantly lowers the overall medication cost, making it more accessible to a larger population.6. Treating Genetic Mutations from the Womb
In November, medical professionals in the United States and Canada announced a groundbreaking success in treating Pompe disease while the patient was still a fetus in the mother's womb. This genetic disorder prevents the breakdown of stored glycogen in the body, leading to a gradual accumulation. Without intervention, individuals with Pompe disease face the risk of death or developmental issues later in life, even with post-birth treatment. Using in-body gene editing technology on the mother, the affected unborn child not only survived but also developed normally. The child reached developmental milestones by the age of 2 and will continue receiving enzyme replacement therapy in the future.7. Harnessing Viruses to Combat Cancer
In September, Replimune revealed the results of the phase 1 clinical trial showcasing a novel approach to cancer treatment—using viruses to combat the disease. The treatment, named RP2, utilizes a strain of herpes simplex 1 virus, traditionally causing oral herpes in humans, engineered to target cancer cells. RP2 works by both attacking these cells directly and enhancing the immune system's ability to identify and eliminate cancer. Out of the 39 participants, 10 showed promising responses, causing the cells to halt or shrink, with one patient achieving complete recovery sustained for 15 months. Multiple companies and organizations are exploring this avenue, offering hope for a new weapon against cancer in the near future.8. Treating Obesity with Medication
Eli Lilly, in May, announced the results of the phase 3 clinical trial for the drug Tirzepatide, designed to combat type 2 diabetes and obesity. Participants experienced a remarkable 22% reduction in body weight, surpassing the average reductions achieved through diet or exercise alone. FDA approval has been granted for the use of this medication under the name Mounjaro in treating type 2 diabetes, and Eli Lilly anticipates FDA approval for obesity treatment in March of the following year. Several companies are also researching similar medications, exemplified by Novo Nordisk's Wegovy, an obesity treatment introduced last year at a cost of $1,000 per month.9. Identifying Potential Causes of Multiple Sclerosis in Neurological Disorders
Multiple sclerosis is a condition that impairs neurological functions as the immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath covering nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. Gradually, it leads to fatigue, cognitive decline, blurred vision, double vision, and difficulty in mobility. A collaborative group of researchers has identified the virus Epstein-Barr as a potential cause of this disease. Individuals infected with this virus are at a significantly higher risk of developing multiple sclerosis than those without the infection. Many experts support this conclusion and plan to focus on research to develop appropriate treatment measures, with the possibility of a vaccine against the Epstein-Barr virus in the future.10. Exploring CAR T-Cell Therapy in the Hope of Curing Lupus
German scientists in September shared the promising results of a small-scale clinical trial, hailed as a potential breakthrough in lupus treatment. The research team genetically modified T cells in the lab to enhance their ability to target a variety of cancers before reintroducing them into the body. Termed CAR T-cell therapy, the results demonstrated the capability to delay the disease's progression for up to 17 months. All patients experienced certain improvements in their condition. Researchers hypothesize that these modified T cells targeted immune cells that had gone awry, contributing to the autoimmune phenomenon leading to lupus. While more confirmation is needed, it highlights another avenue for gene modification approaches in treating chronic illnesses.
