Category Archives: Immunology

Immunology

PhD life at the National Heart and Lung Institute | Imperial News – Imperial College London

Throughout the year the NHLI welcomes postgraduate research students who are progressing their careers in respiratory, vascular and cardiac sciences.

As every pathway to a PhD is different, we thought we would ask some students about their individual PhD journeys - from finding funding to advice they would give to someone thinking about applying for their own PhD.

First up, some of our respiratory students; Helen Stoelting, Lauren Headley, Karim Boustani, Nicoletta Bruno and Kunyuan Tian.

Helen My PhD centres around remodelling of the lung during asthma or allergic airway disease during early life, looking at both school-age children with asthma, but also pre-school wheezing in the chest which happens before that. A lot of children who have pre-school wheeze go on to develop asthma later in life, but some of them dont and at the moment we dont really know why that is.

Lauren - The methods of diagnosing and assessing asthma are pretty complicated and can be invasive and arent always accurate. So for me, the goal is to make a sampling method where we can just analyse it and tell people you need to be on this medication or this isnt going to work for you, just to simplify the process, making it much easier for patients and doctors and ultimately not see people suffer.

Karim - For my PhD Im looking at the role the antibody response plays in asthma and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) a lung disease that scars the lungs - and specifically why some types of antibodies are increased in patients with these diseases. I want to investigate why we find some types of B cells in the airways in the first place. If we can understand how these cells are contributing to inflammation and disease, we can hopefully target them with treatments.

Nicoletta - Im looking at steroid resistant asthma in particular, both in animals and humans. Im looking at the asthma types that are not strictly related to allergy and that are more resistant to the current therapies. Its more about identifying which mechanisms are going on because theres not much known about it, and when we learn more it will make a difference.

Kunyuan - Im looking at genetics and environment, recreating the onset of pre-school wheeze and the progression to asthma. The approach of my project is to set up an animal model using a virus to induce a viral response which will make the mice susceptible to asthma.

Karim - I am funded by an Asthma UK studentship as part of the Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma. After completing my MSc in Immunology at Imperial, I knew I wanted to study respiratory immunology at PhD level so I decided to apply.

Helen - The British Lung Foundation (BLF). My MSc research project supervisor already had funding secured for PhD students through her larger research grant and she helped guide me through the application process which was really helpful.

Lauren - I went on the FindaPhD website which found my MRC/Asthma UK joint PhD on it. It was one of the more straightforward applications Ive done. I had to send over my CV then have a Skype interview. How easy it is all depends on the funding youre applying for and the research group.

Kunyuan - My funding is from Asthma UK which I came across on the British Society of Immunology website. I think the scholarship was also advertised on the Imperial website too. I found the application process very straightforward. I didnt actually apply for this one initially but it was suggested to me that I apply for this PhD instead. I didnt think I was ready for this but when I had a closer look into it, I thought it sounded really interesting so it all worked out well.

Nicoletta - I found my MRC-Asthma UK studentship on the FindaPhD website. It was a fairly easy application process I just had to send a cover letter and my CV, and the interview was quite straightforward compared to other interviews Ive had.

Nicoletta - I studied my undergraduate degree in Biotechnology in Bologna, Italy, then I completed a MSc in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology in both Bologna and in Munich, Germany. I then worked as a research assistant in Cambridge at the Sanger Institute for two years before deciding that I wanted to do a PhD.

Helen - I did my undergraduate degree in Molecular Biomedicine at the University of Bonn in Germany and then I took a year out to do some internships at Bayer, a German biomedical company, and also worked in some university labs. This was a really helpful experience as it made me realise that I dont want to work in industry! I really enjoyed the project I did as part of my MSc in Immunology at Imperial. I had half a year of lectures and then completed my research project with Professor Clare Lloyd, whose group I am working in now.

Lauren - Before coming here I did my undergraduate degree at Kings College London which I extended into an MSci that was Integrated Physiology and Pharmacology for Research. However in order to do the BSc I had to do an Access course as I didnt actually have A Levels. I applied to a few universities for two different courses and I got offers from Kings and London Southbank which I thought was miraculous. It always seemed like it was A Levels or nothing, I was offered a place and I really enjoyed it.

Karim - I did my undergraduate degree London in Biochemistry at Kings College London and then I moved to Imperial to do an MSc in Immunology.

Kunyuan - When I was at high school in Singapore I decided that I wanted to study at a university in London so I applied for an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Sciences at University College London. I then did my MSc in Immunology here at Imperial and was a research assistant over at Imperial Colleges Hammersmith campus before starting my PhD.

Karim - I was already at Imperial for a year doing my MSc and I really liked it, and I knew I wanted to work within the field of immunology and lung inflammation. I knew Imperial had an excellent department so I thought Id apply.

Helen - It was actually more down to chance! I knew I wanted to study Immunology and in Germany there are a couple of universities that are renowned for Immunology, and one of those was where I did my undergraduate degree. I knew I didnt necessarily want to stay in the same city or at the same university so I started applying to places abroad and Imperials MSc just looked really interesting. They had a scholarship which was easy to apply for, and even though I didnt get it, I still came and I dont regret it.

Lauren - After completing my BSc in Pharmacology at Kings College London I actually had a PhD lined up in Australia. It was my dream to go out there but my husband said he didnt want to go! I told him that I would apply for this PhD at Imperial, thinking I was never going to get it so we could still go to Australiabut then I ended up getting it! Its been such an amazing opportunity; I never could have dreamed of coming here.

Nicoletta - Its quite funny actually, I applied and didnt really know that Imperial had such a good reputation for research! It was only once I started that I realised how lucky I was.

Helen - Its difficult to say now because Im still quite early in, but I think your heart has to be in it. There will be some difficult times somewhere along the line and if youre not enjoying research, dont do it. But I do think anyone can do it if you set your mind to it.

Karim - The advice that I would give to anyone thinking about doing a PhD would be to get a feel of the lab and supervisor beforehand if possible. If you can, go and meet with the principal investigator, go for an informal chat, go and see the labs, and see if they have all the equipment and funding you might want or need.

Nicoletta - It needs commitment and it can be stressful but its worth it. Its good because you keep challenging yourself all the time and you have to keep up to date on what everyone else is doing. You need to be motivated because you dont get paid much and you still have to work at weekends. But you get to work with clinicians and thats quite unique as you dont get to do that with many other places in Europe. Here you get clinicians working alongside pure scientists and you can learn from each other.

Kunyuan - Talk to postdocs because they are in a really interesting position theyve already done their PhD so can talk about their experience and at the same time they are still working up the ladder, so they are a very good source of advice.

Lauren - Go for it! The skills that you learn are so transferable, and if you enjoy learning and education, a PhD is perfect.

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PhD life at the National Heart and Lung Institute | Imperial News - Imperial College London

Immunology

The global plasma fractionation market was valued at $16,823 million in 2018, and is expected to reach $30,536 million by 2026, registering a CAGR of…

Global Plasma Fractionation Market by Product (Albumin, Immunoglobulins, and Coagulation Factor VIII), Application (Neurology, Hematology, Immunology, Critical Care and Others), End User (Hospitals, and Research Laboratories): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20182028

New York, Jan. 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Global Plasma Fractionation Market by Product, Application, End User : Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20182028" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p05836984/?utm_source=GNW

The global plasma fractionation market was valued at $16,823 million in 2018, and is expected to reach $30,536 million by 2026, registering a CAGR of 6.1% from 2019 to 2026. Fractionation is a mechanical process carried out to separate a certain quantity of mixture. Plasma is the liquid part of the blood which is yellowish and holds blood cells. Plasma fractionation is carried out to separate high quality, proteinaceous products such as albumin, immunoglobulins, and others. These derived products are known as plasma derivatives obtained from fractionation. Moreover, these products are used in various medical fields such as in neurology, hematology, critical care, immunology, and others. For instance, in critical care, plasma is prescribed to prevent and stop bleeding. In addition, plasma products are widely used in clinical research laboratories and hospitals. The factors that boost the growth of the plasma fractionation market include surge in geriatric population across the globe, which is predisposed to various rare diseases that require the use of plasma derivatives. Moreover, rise in use of immunoglobulins and alpha-1-antitrypsin in areas of medicine worldwide also fuel the growth of the plasma fractionation market. Furthermore, surge in plasma collection centers worldwide is another major factor that contributes toward the growth of this market. In addition, favorable governmental support to spread awareness related to the use of plasma derived products also fuels the growth of the plasma fractionation market. However, high cost of plasma derived products restricts the growth of the market. Conversely, growth potential in emerging economies is expected to create lucrative opportunities for the market growth during the forecast period. The global plasma fractionation market is segmented on the basis of product, application, end user, and region. On the basis of product, the market is divided into albumin, immunoglobulins, and coagulation factor VIII. Moreover, immunoglobulins are further divided into subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIG) and coagulation factor VIII. By application, the market is classified into neurology, hematology, immunology, critical care, and others. On the basis of end user, it is categorized into hospitals and clinical research laboratories. By country, it is analyzed across Russia, Kazakhstan, Indonesia, China (Including Taiwan), India, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Vietnam, Argentina, Thailand, and Nigeria.

KEY BENEFITS FOR STAKEHOLDERS This report entails a detailed quantitative analysis along with the current global plasma fractionation market trends from 2019 to 2026 to identify the prevailing opportunities along with the strategic assessment. The market size and estimations are based on a comprehensive analysis of key developments in the industry. A qualitative analysis based on innovative products facilitates strategic business planning. The development strategies adopted by the key market players are enlisted to understand the competitive scenario of the market

Key Market Segments By Product o Albumin o Immunoglobulins o Subcutaneous Immunoglobulin (SCIG) o Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) o Coagulation Factor By Application o Neurology o Hematology o Immunology o Critical Care o Others By End User o Hospitals o Clinical Research Laboratories By Country o Russia o Kazakhstan o Indonesia o China (Including Taiwan) o India o Saudi Arabia o Egypt o Vietnam o Argentina o Thailand o Nigeria o Rest of the World

List of key players profiled in the report: Grifols SA Baxter International Inc CSL LTD. Bio Product Laboratory Octapharma AG Sanquin Laboratoire Franais Du Fractionnement Et Des Kedrion Biotest Takeda Pharmaceuticals

LIST OF OTHER PLAYERS IN THE VALUE CHAIN (These players are not profiled in the report. The same will be included on request) LFB S.A. Shanghai RAAS Blood Products Co., Ltd.Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05836984/?utm_source=GNW

About ReportlinkerReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.

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The global plasma fractionation market was valued at $16,823 million in 2018, and is expected to reach $30,536 million by 2026, registering a CAGR of...

Immunology

Scientists Find Powerhouses That Fight Tumours From Within – New Vision

In recent years, doctors have turned to a new treatment for cancer, immunotherapy, which works by leveraging the body's immune system to fight tumours.

The new treatment for cancer, immunotherapy, works by leveraging the body's own immune system to fight tumours. Photo/AFP

In recent years, doctors have turned to a new treatment for cancer, immunotherapy, which works by leveraging the body's immune system to fight tumours.

HEALTH

Lurking deep inside some tumours are "factories" full of immune cells that help the body fight a rearguard action against cancer and are key to helping some patients recover, new research has shown.

In recent years, doctors have turned to a new treatment for cancer, immunotherapy, which works by leveraging the body's immune system to fight tumours.

The technique has largely focused on white blood cells called T-cells, which are "trained" to recognise and attack cancer cells.

But the innovative treatment only works well for around 20 percent of patients, and researchers have been trying to understand why some people respond better than others.

Three papers published on Thursday in the journal Nature point the way, identifying a key formation inside some tumours: tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS).

These structures function like "factories or schools" for immune cells that help the body fight cancer, said Wolf H. Fridman, a professor emeritus of immunology at the Cordeliers Research Centre of the Paris Descartes University medical school, who helped lead one of the studies.

"The cells need to be educated in schools, which are the tertiary lymphoid structures," where they effectively learn to recognise and attack cancer cells, Fridman told AFP.

- No longer 'innocent bystanders' -

Key to the findings is that T-cells are far from the only immune cells capable of taking the fight to cancer, with researchers finding the TLS were full of B-cells, a kind of immune cell that produces antibodies.

"We have been T-cell addicts for 15 years in cancer," Fridman said with a laugh.

"We analysed these sarcomas to see what groups they had and what's striking is that these B-cells appeared."

Beth Helmink, a fellow in surgical oncology at the University of Texas's MD Anderson Cancer Center who worked on a second study, said the research changed perceptions of the role of B-cells in immunotherapy.

"Through these studies, we find that B-cells are not just innocent bystanders, but are themselves contributing in a meaningful way to the anti-tumour immune response," she said in a statement issued by the Center.

The discovery is something of a surprise, as an abundance of B-cells in cancer patients has sometimes been seen as a marker for poor prognosis.

But the studies found that patients with high levels of B-cells inside TLS in their tumours were more likely to respond well to immunotherapy.

"This series of studies are exciting because they represent real progress in the treatment of different types of cancer," said Louisa James, a lecturer in immunology at Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London.

"In the short term, these results provide a new tool to help predict which patients are likely to benefit from treatment with immunotherapy and may also pave the way for improved treatments in the future," added James, who was not involved in the studies.

Improving cancer treatment

There are still many unanswered questions, including why the structures form in some tumours and not others.

And while it now seems clear that B-cells inside the structures play a key role in the success of immunotherapy, scientists are not sure precisely how.

It may be that the B-cells are on the frontlines, producing antibodies that attack cancer cells efficiently.

Or they may be bolstering T-cells, or perhaps doing both.

And not all TLS are created equal: the researchers found three categories, but only one type was "mature" enough to churn out cancer-fighting immune cells.

The research opens several promising avenues, the authors said.

Initially, it could help doctors screen patients to see which are most likely to respond well to immunotherapy.

And eventually, the research could mean more patients are successfully treated with the technique, said Goran Jonsson, a professor of oncology and pathology at Lund University in Sweden who worked on a third study.

"If we come up with a treatment that could enhance TLS formation, we could combine this with current immunotherapy regimens," he told AFP.

"Most likely this would lead to more patients responding to immunotherapy."

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Scientists Find Powerhouses That Fight Tumours From Within - New Vision

Immunology

Board of Trustees to be created at RSPC for pediatric oncology, hematology and immunology – TVR

The Board of Trustees will monitor the development of the center: it will coordinate the work of the business and the healthcare system and will inform the population. Natalia Kochanova expressed her wish for all the senators to be involved. The chairwoman of the Upper House visited young patients and held a round table discussion on the implementation of the pilot project, housing construction for employees, improving the working conditions of young specialists with the representatives of the Ministry of Health.

Vladimir Karanik, Minister of Health of Belarus: "We are in the top twenty countries in the cure rate of the children in the world. In general, 75% of childrens oncology diseases are cured. This figure has not reached 100 percent, but we will continue to work to improve the results."

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Board of Trustees to be created at RSPC for pediatric oncology, hematology and immunology - TVR

Immunology

Probiotics: Don’t Buy the Online Hype – HealthDay

WEDNESDAY, Jan. 15, 2020 (HealthDay News) -- Many people turn to the internet with health questions, but how reliable is the information you find? When it comes to probiotics, a new study urges caution.

The research found that of 150 websites that came up with a search of probiotics, most were commercial sites, hoping to sell a product. Others were news sites or health portals (providing links to other sites). Many of these sites mentioned potential benefits of probiotics, though not all had scientific evidence to back up those claims. And just 1 in 4 of the websites mentioned any potential side effects from taking probiotics.

"This study demonstrates that a number of online claims on the health benefits of probiotics are not supported by scientific evidence," said study co-author Dr. Michel Goldman, a professor of immunology at the Universite Libre de Bruxelles in Belgium.

Probiotics are "good" bacteria found in yogurt and other fermented foods and in dietary supplements, according to the U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Some of these bacteria are also found naturally in the human body. They may help digest food, fight germs that can cause disease, or produce vitamins.

"Probiotics can clearly be helpful in the management of infectious diarrhea, in pregnant women with gestational diabetes, and as an adjunct to food allergy desensitization therapy," Goldman said. He added that probiotics might also be helpful for the skin condition eczema and for some urinary or genital infections in women.

But his team saw some broad claims online about probiotics' benefits, such as being beneficial in treating cancer. There's no scientific evidence to support those claims.

For the study, Goldman and his colleagues looked at the first 150 pages brought up by Google in response to a search for "probiotics." They reviewed the information on these pages for reliability and searched a large database of clinical trials for evidence supporting those claims.

One bright spot was that Google appears to prioritize more reliable sources of information over commercial websites.

Still, consumers should be wary of health information they get online.

"Consumers should look whether there is scientific information published in peer-reviewed medical journals supporting claims to probiotics and over-the-counter health products that are not regulated as rigorously as prescription drugs. They should discuss with their doctors, the benefits they can expect from probiotics," Goldman said.

Dr. Melinda Ring, executive director of the Osher Center for Integrative Medicine at Northwestern University in Chicago, said she wasn't surprised by the findings.

"This is a big problem in the natural product and dietary supplement area. There's a preponderance of less reputable information from sales and commercial sources," said Ring, who wasn't part of the research.

"People really need to look at the claims websites are making. Are they promising unrealistic cures? Are they referencing scientific data?" she said.

One area where probiotics may be helpful is in maintaining the body's natural balance of beneficial bacteria -- the gut microbiome. "We know the human microbiome is incredibly important to our health and the development of disease, but we're just in the infancy of understanding how to manipulate the microbiome," Ring said.

If you're interested in improving your gut's microbiome, the first place to start is improving your diet, because what you eat is also food for your microbiome, Ring said. Focus on vegetables, fruits and whole grains.

A number of foods have probiotics, such as yogurt and fermented foods. But sometimes the probiotics that occur naturally in foods can be destroyed by processing and preserving. Ring recommended looking for "live cultures" on the packaging.

If you take probiotic supplements, she suggested sticking with reputable brands, and perhaps taking more than one product to make sure you're getting a diversity of probiotics.

Andrea Wong is senior vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs for the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), which represents the supplement industry. She said that research demonstrates that probiotics are safe and have health benefits.

"When it comes to reliable information on probiotics and other dietary supplements, doctors and other health care practitioners are the most trusted sources. CRN encourages consumers to be smart shoppers and do their due diligence when looking for dietary supplement information," Wong said.

The findings were published Jan. 15 in Frontiers in Medicine.

More information

Learn more about probiotics from the U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

SOURCES: Michel Goldman, M.D., Ph.D., professor, immunology, Universite Libre de Bruxelles, and co-director, 13th Institute, Belgium; Melinda Ring, M.D., executive director, Osher Center for Integrative Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago; Andrea Wong, Ph.D., senior vice president, scientific and regulatory affairs, Council for Responsible Nutrition; Jan. 15, 2020, Frontiers in Medicine

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Probiotics: Don't Buy the Online Hype - HealthDay

Immunology

Lucid Group expands its presence in the north-west with six new hires – PMLiVE

Healthcare 21, a Lucid Group company, continues to strengthen its editorial and medical writing team with six new additions to its Macclesfield office.

Rosanna Farrell joins HealthCare 21 as a Senior Editorial Assistant. Rosanna has 7 years experience in editorial, working with TimeOut London, The Big Issue and The London 2012 Olympics programmes.

Becca Winkle joins HealthCare 21 as an Editorial Assistant. Becca has an MA in English Literary Studies, English Literature and Literary Theory as well as previous teaching and editorial experience. Becca comments I became interested in MedComms because, as someone with a passion for English Language and Literature, I recognise the importance of the style and functionality of language when conveying information about complex subjects or issues. As an Editorial Assistant at HealthCare21, Im excited to be part of a process that ultimately leads to a better experience for healthcare professionals and patients receiving care.

Alex Nicholson joins HealthCare 21 as an Editorial Assistant. Alex has a degree in English and French and a PGCE in Modern Languages and he is currently studying for his StEP Proofreading 2: Headway. Alex previously worked as a freelance transcriber for a document service company and runs a blog on popular culture, sport and current affairs.

Nicole Scullion joins HealthCare 21 as a Trainee Medical Writer. Nicole has an MRes in Biomedical Sciences and Translation Medicine from the University of Liverpool where she focussed on cancer biology and the response of uveal melanoma.

Sophie Day also joins HealthCare 21 as a Trainee Medical Writer. Sophie has a BSc in Biology from the University of Manchester where she completed her dissertation in Science Media and Communication.

Areeba Ali joins HC21 as a trainee medical writer. Originally from Ireland she moved to Manchester to pursue a Masters in Clinical Immunology. Areeba comments, Im very excited to be joining such a people-centric organisation with such a focus on transforming patients lives.

If you are interested in being part of something magical, get in touch.

Contact Dan Newbury, Talent Acquisition ManagerEmail: Daniel@lucid-group.co.ukTel: 01494 755495

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Lucid Group expands its presence in the north-west with six new hires - PMLiVE

Immunology

CIMZIA approved for use by Health Canada – Spinal News International

Syringe with Certolizumab pegol

UCB Canada has announced that CIMZIA (certolizumab pegol) for the treatment of adults with severe active non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA), has been approved for use by Health Canada.

The treatment is targeted at adults with objective signs of inflammation as indicated by elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evidence who have had an inadequate response to, or are intolerant to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Health Canadas approval is based on data from C-AXSPAND5, a Phase 3, multicentre, double-blind, placebo-controlled 52-week study that randomised 317 adult patients to receive either CIMZIA or placebo plus common background medications, which included NSAIDs, corticosteroids, analgesics and slow-acting anti-rheumatic drugs. The study met its primary endpoint, with 47.2% of patients treated with CIMZIA demonstrating major improvement response in Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS-MI) at week 52, compared to 7.0% of patients treated with placebo. Detailed findings from the study were published online in Arthritis & Rheumatology in March 2019.

Were pleased to see this important advance for the spondyloarthritis community. Greater awareness, earlier diagnosis and more treatment options will help deliver better outcomes for Canadians living with this painful disease which often falls through the cracks, and carries with it a significant burden, said Gerald Major, president, Canadian Spondylitis Association.

The approval marks the fifth indication for CIMZIA, which is the only Fc-free, PEGylated anti-TNF option available for the treatment of the disease where significant unmet need currently exists, UCB said in a press release.

The journey patients face from symptom onset to diagnosis and receiving appropriate treatment can be extremely lengthysometimes up to 10 years. So having a new and effective option for nr-axSpA is welcome news, both for those suffering and their physicians who are seeking a proven treatment to reduce the severe pain, stiffness, and other burdensome symptoms of the disease, said Walter Maksymowych, professor and medical scientist in the Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology at the University of Alberta (Edmonton, Canada).

The approval of CIMZIA for nr-axSpA is an important treatment advance which builds on more than a decade of market experience and proven efficacy and safety, said Lionel Houle, head of immunology, UCB Canada.

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CIMZIA approved for use by Health Canada - Spinal News International

Immunology

JPM, Day 3: AbbVie duo’s $20B ambitions, GSK and Pfizer’s what-next moment and Amarin’s clear runway – FiercePharma

We're not gonna lieWednesdays at the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference feel a bit anticlimactic. Two days of meetings, presentations, panels and cocktail hours are past, and we can see the end in sight.

But that doesn't mean the action has come to a halt. Indeed, we picked up some unprecedented talk from AbbVie CEO Rick Gonzalez first thing Wednesday morning, and by day's end had heard some even bigger numbers from a GlaxoSmithKline vaccines exec.

Now, our JPM on-site team is dispersing, recapping and digging through notebooks for quotes that captured the whirlwind conference-in-progress. Here's what we heardand what we're thinkingafter Day 3.

Artificial Intelligence in the Pharma Industry

How far has the adoption of AI technology come in Life Sciences? Share your thoughts in this brief, 8-minute survey. Let your voice be heard.

Missed our previous roundups? Here areDay 1 and Day 2. And check out our collectedJPM coverage: FierceBiotech's here and FiercePharma's here.

GlaxoSmithKline and Pfizer seem to have contradictory visions for their consumer health joint venture. During a Tuesday presentation, Pfizer chief Albert Bourla said he believes the JV is heading toward an IPO within three to four years in a move that provides the New York pharma a clear exit strategy. Maybe not, GSKs chief strategy officer David Redfern saidin an interview with Bloomberg the following day. "And its entirely our decision, Redfern said. Story

At Wednesdays first presentation, AbbVie CEO Richard Gonzalez talked up the potential of two thedrugmakersnew immunology launchesSkyriziandRinvoq. While only approved in psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis right now, respectively, Gonzalez said he expects the meds to pick up newindications toeventually match or best Humira, AbbVies almost-$20 billionmegablockbuster. If pricing holds steady, he could envision the meds reaching $20 billion in sales or more, easily picking up where Humira leaves off as biosimilars enter the U.S.in 2023. Story

GSKsShingrixgenerated blockbuster sales quickly after its launch, but numberstouted by thedrugmakerthis weekshow the size of the remaining opportunityand how much supply constraints have held the rollout back.The company figures a massive 115 million people in the U.S. alone would be eligible for Shingrix,GSKs vaccines presidentRoger Connor toldFiercePharma at JPM. The company'slooking everywhere to increase capacity, but its started to hit a bottleneck," with true relief several years away. Story

Amarin's been revving up for Vascepa's big CVlaunch in the U.S., and now thatAstraZenecas Epanova flopped a major trial, its field is clear of competitors. In Europe, Vascepa is still awaiting its regulatory review for CV risk reduction, but that hasn't stoppedother drugmakers from sniffing around for possible licensing opportunities, CEO John Thero told investors Wednesday. Not interested, Thero saidat least not yet. Amarin sees more value in waiting out the regulatory process before considering a deal. Its still a bit premature to get too far along in these conversations as we think the value will increase as the regulatory process proceeds in Europe, he said. Story

MichaelGoettler, CEO-to-be of the newViatris, said the combination of Mylan and Upjohn will have global scale and geographic reach, and will be a partner of choice for midsizeddrugmakersseeking to reach new markets. The combination makes sense because together the companies will have a sustainable and diverse portfolio,plusstrong commercial capabilities and financialperformance,Goettlersaid.

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JPM, Day 3: AbbVie duo's $20B ambitions, GSK and Pfizer's what-next moment and Amarin's clear runway - FiercePharma

Immunology

JPM: How will Amgen make its $13.4B Otezla buy pay off? New launches, for one, CEO says – FiercePharma

SAN FRANCISCOWhen Amgen shelled out $13.4 billion late last year to pick up Celgene's blockbuster immunology med Otezla, it made a calculated guess the drug had some untapped fuel in its commercial tank. Now, Amgen is looking to rev up sales with new indications and launches in new international markets.

Although scant on details, Amgen CEO Bob Bradway forecast Tuesdaythat Amgen could squeeze more out of Otezla in the coming yearsafter the drug hit $547 million in sales in the third quarterassuming Amgen can follow its own mantra and execute.

"In biopharma, the focus is on innovation, innovation, innovation, and Amgen is execution, execution, execution," Bradway told investors at the annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference in San Francisco.

Artificial Intelligence in the Pharma Industry

How far has the adoption of AI technology come in Life Sciences? Share your thoughts in this brief, 8-minute survey. Let your voice be heard.

In Bradway's telling, Otezla helped Amgen flesh out its immunology portfolio as a counterpart to stalwart Enbrel.

"We think the stars really aligned for us in 2019 when we were able to acquire Otezla," Bradway said. "Otezla is a great medicine, it has great valuefor us, and it came at a great time."

RELATED:Amgen, maker of Enbrel, to pick up Celgene's Otezla for $13.4B. Will FTC hit back?

Amgen picked up Otezla in a$13.4 billion deal with Celgene in August as the latter worked to secure its$74 billion merger with Bristol-Myers Squibb.

Bristol was forced to sell Otezla to win the Federal Trade Commission's clearance simply because it overlappedwith BMS own investigational TYK-2 inhibitor, BMS-986165. Despite Amgen's blockbuster Enbrel operating in the same market, the deal passed muster.

At the time, Amgen expected Otezla could enjoy at least low double-digit sales growth on average over the next five years. The Streets consensus currently has it reaching $2.5 billion in peak sales before presumably going off patent in the U.S. in 2028. At that rate,Amgen will at least be able to get its investment back in full by around 2024.

Looking ahead, Amgen expects phase 3 data for Otezla in mild to moderate psoriasis will read out this year, and the drugmaker hopes to launch the drug beyond the30-oddinternational markets where it's currently approved, Bradway said.

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JPM: How will Amgen make its $13.4B Otezla buy pay off? New launches, for one, CEO says - FiercePharma

Immunology

Why There’s No Such Thing as a Truly Hypoallergenic Dog – Healthline

If you become congested and start to sneeze anytime youre near a dog, youre not alone. The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) reports that almost 10 million people are allergic to their pets.

For many pet owners, buying a hypoallergenic dog sounds like the perfect solution. No more allergy pills or shots and you can still have a cute, furry friend. It sounds perfect, right?

However, when Healthline asked several allergy experts about hypoallergenic dogs, they all gave us a very emphatic no.

Theres no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog.

However, there are many options to consider that may allow you to own a dog without triggering a reaction if youre a person living with pet allergies.

According to allergist Dr. Tania Elliott, a spokesperson for the ACAAI, people can develop allergic reactions to pet dander (similar to dandruff in humans), saliva, urine, and hair.

When exposed to these substances, our body can mistakenly see certain proteins within them, called allergens, as a threat. To protect us, our body develops antibodies against those proteins.

When were exposed to those proteins again, we then have an allergic response. Our immune system will be activated, causing the release of histamine.

Histamine causes symptoms, such as sneezing and increased mucus production, which protect us from the invading protein.

These symptoms are what cause the discomfort we associate with an allergy.

In the case of a dog allergy, Elliott says you could develop symptoms such as itchy eyes, runny nose, asthma attacks, sneezing, and/or congestion.

You might also develop hives if youve been touched or licked by a dog.

According to Dr. Jill A. Poole, professor, division chief of allergy and immunology at the department of medicine at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, theres no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog because all dogs produce the same proteins.

Its those proteins to which youre reacting. Thats why even a so-called hypoallergenic dog can still trigger an allergic reaction.

It would be more appropriate, Poole said, to call these shedding versus non-shedding dogs.

Shedding dogs release more dog hair into their environment, leading to a buildup of dog hair in your home.

Non-shedding dogs tend to not shed their hair as easily. They must be regularly groomed to prevent matting.

When dogs shed, some people can develop an irritant response to the hair.

While the symptoms can be the same, an irritant response is different from an allergic response. Irritation doesnt trigger the production of antibodies the way an allergy does.

If you experience an irritant response to dog hair, having a dog that sheds less would reduce this.

Being vigilant about keeping loose dog hair cleaned up would also help those who are experiencing an irritant response, says Poole.

Poole says your first step in getting tested for a dog allergy would be to talk with a doctor or allergist about your symptoms and medical history. If these indicate a possible dog allergy, they can order a test for you.

This testing would be either a skin test or a blood test.

Skin and blood tests are similar in that they can detect the antibodies in your skin and blood that trigger an immune response to a particular allergen.

In a skin test, a small amount of a diluted allergen is placed under your skin, either by pricking the skin or by injection.

If you develop a red, itchy bump, called a wheal, within about 15 minutes, youre considered to be allergic to that particular allergen.

A blood test would involve drawing blood and testing it in a laboratory for the presence of antibodies.

While theres no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog, it appears that some people with dog allergies may not be allergic to all dogs.

Theres recent research indicating that people who are allergic to a specific dog protein called Can f 5 might only react to intact male dogs.

Poole explains this means that some people with dog allergies could potentially own either a female or a neutered male dog and wouldnt have an allergic reaction.

There are six different proteins that have been been identified as causing allergies in dogs: Can f 1 to 6.

Can f 5 is only produced in the prostate gland of the male.

Because of this fact, a female dog wouldnt produce an allergic reaction in people who are allergic to only this one allergen.

A neutered male produces less of this protein and might also be a safe choice.

About 30 percent of people with dog allergies are allergic to only the Can f 5 protein, Poole says.

Dr. Princess Ogbogu, director of allergy and immunology at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, does caution that its a bit premature to make this a standard clinical recommendation.

It is a hypothesis and not well established yet, Ogbogu said.

However, if youd like to explore this avenue further, you can speak with your doctor about testing.

A test for allergy to the Can f proteins was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in May 2019.

Poole says its important that youre tested for all of the Can f allergens and not just Can f 5. You could be allergic to more than one of them.

If youre not one of the lucky few who are only allergic to Can f 5, there are several other steps you can take that may allow you to have a canine in your home.

Poole suggests the first place to start is to try limiting your exposure to the offending allergens through environmental controls.

According to the ACAAI, environmental controls could include such things as:

Another step you can take is to use medications to manage your allergy symptoms.

Your allergist can recommend which medications will be best for you, depending on your individual symptoms.

Medications your doctor might prescribe include:

Finally, although it can be time-consuming, immunotherapy does offer more of a permanent solution to dog allergies.

Poole explains it takes about 3 to 5 years to desensitize a person to an allergen.

The protocol involves giving the person a gradually increasing dose of the allergen once or twice a week until they reach a maintenance dose.

At this point, theyd then need an injection every 2 to 4 weeks over the course of about 3 to 5 years.

Each injection is given subcutaneously (in the fat layer between the skin and muscle).

The person is then observed by a medical professional for 30 minutes in case they have an adverse reaction to the allergen.

Immunotherapy can greatly reduce, or even completely eliminate, your allergy symptoms.

Many people who love dogs are unfortunately allergic to them.

While a hypoallergenic dog might seem like a good solution, allergy experts say theres really no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog.

However, this doesnt mean youre without options. There are ways to reduce or eliminate your exposure to dog allergens. You can also take medications that manage your symptoms or have immunotherapy to desensitize you to dog allergens.

An allergist can help you learn more about your options.

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Why There's No Such Thing as a Truly Hypoallergenic Dog - Healthline