7 medical breakthroughs that gave us hope in 2023

In 2023, COVID-19 persisted in claiming lives, with over 50 thousand fatalities reported in the United States alone, contributing to a global death toll nearing seven million. The enduring impact of the pandemic included a surge in long COVID cases among survivors. However, amidst these challenges, positive developments emerged.

As immunity against the virus increased, the World Health Organization, on May 5, declared that COVID-19 no longer posed a global public health emergency. Enhanced booster vaccines, along with the approval of a novel COVID vaccine from Novavax, contributed to a decline in cases, hospitalizations, and deaths.

Beyond the realm of COVID-19, 2023 witnessed significant breakthroughs with far-reaching implications for health and medicine.

Landmark Approval of CRISPR-Based Gene Therapy

• • The United Kingdom and the U.S. approved the world’s inaugural CRISPR-based gene therapy on November 16 and December 8, respectively. Known as CASGEVY, this revolutionary therapy targets sickle cell disease and beta thalassemia by rectifying faulty hemoglobin genes in patients’ bone marrow stem cells. Developed by Nobel laureates Emmanuelle Charpentier and Jennifer Doudna, this breakthrough paves the way for potential cures for various genetic disorders, including cancer and infertility.

First Alzheimer’s Disease-Slowing Drug Authorized

• • • The U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted approval for Leqembi, the first drug designed to slow down Alzheimer’s disease. While not a cure, Leqembi, a monoclonal antibody, demonstrated a 30 percent reduction in memory and thinking decline when administered in the early stages of the disease, primarily by targeting amyloid plaques in the brain.

Innovative Mice Reproduction Technique

• • Researchers in Japan presented evidence of successfully producing healthy, fertile mice without the involvement of a female mouse. Stem cells derived from the skin cells of a male mouse were used to create eggs, which, when fertilized by another male’s sperm, resulted in healthy mouse pups. Although the findings are preliminary, they signify potential advancements in reproductive technology.

Complete Mapping of an Insect Brain’s Connectome

• • Scientists achieved the first comprehensive mapping of an insect brain’s connectome, specifically that of a fruit fly larva. This breakthrough, though conducted on a simpler organism, involved over 3,000 neurons and more than half a million connections. The insights gained can contribute to understanding complex human brains, aiding in neurological disease research and enhancing artificial intelligence systems.

Insights into Gray Hair Formation

• • New York University researchers uncovered the mechanism behind gray hair formation. Melanocyte stem cells, responsible for hair color, can get trapped in an immature state, leading to graying as hair ages. This discovery enhances our understanding of the aging process and opens avenues for potential interventions.

Bacteria’s Role in Cancer Progression

• • Researchers found that certain bacteria present in gastrointestinal tract tumors collaborate with cancer cells, promoting cancer progression and resistance to anticancer drugs. Understanding this dynamic interaction offers new possibilities for treating cancer by targeting both tumor cells and associated bacteria.

AI Predicts Pancreatic Cancer Risk

• • An artificial intelligence tool demonstrated the ability to predict pancreatic cancer up to three years before diagnosis by analyzing specific patterns in health records. Trained on data from millions of individuals, the AI model proved as accurate as genetic testing in identifying individuals at high risk, potentially allowing for early intervention and improved outcomes.

These scientific advancements in 2023 showcase a promising trajectory toward addressing health challenges and advancing medical knowledge.