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The article reports that a study conducted by Sirna Therapeutics Inc. on "short interfering RNA", has demonstrated a 95% knockdown of the hepatitis B virus when injected into mice. This is the first demonstration of the efficacy of short interfering RNA at therapeutically relevant doses, and the company believes the study results will establish a strong scientific foundation for broad human application of RNA interference based therapeutics. Sirna expects to commence early stage human clinical trials in 2006.

Reports on TorreyPines Therapeutics' identification of compounds that lower levels of A-Beta42, a neurotoxic peptide associated with Alzheimer's disease, without inhibiting protein processes that are vital for normal body function. Oral administration of several compounds within the series which lowered A-Beta42 levels in the plasma and brain of Alzheimer's disease mouse models; Novel structural features of the Series591 compounds that appear to modulate, rather than inhibit gamma secretase activity.

Reports that Repligen Corp. has reported pre-clinical data indicating that its proprietary compound RG2417 has anti-anxiety properties in animal models and may have activity in anxiety disorders. Aim of the pre-clinical study to evaluate the effects of uridine treatment in mouse models of anxiety, including open field locomotor activity, elevated plus-maze test and light/dark choice procedure; Data suggesting that RG2417 may have activity in anxiety disorders without impairment of general activities.

Focuses on the presentation of preclinical data suggesting the potential therapeutic benefits of second-generation immunomodulatory oligonucleotide from Hybridon Inc. in a mouse model of established allergic asthma. Components of the oligonucleotide; Improvement of lung function; Reduction in bronchoalveolar lavage and peribronchial eosinophilia.

Reports on the role of cytokines in stimulating immunity according to researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School in Pennsylvania. Role of interleukin-27 (IL-27) in suppressing CD4 T cells; Grants provided by the U.S. National Institutes of Health to fund the research; Use of mice that lack the cytokine receptor to gauge the function of IL-27.

Reports on the progress of the preclinical studies of the antifungal treatment of Genelabs Technologies. Survival rates of mice; Increase in the prevalence of invasive fungal infections; Mortality rate of patients with invasive Aspergillus infection.

The article presents the study conducted by the University of Washington researchers regarding the regeneration of the damaged cells of the human retina. The researchers revealed that the regeneration is already possible due to the successful treatment they conducted to the diseased retinas of mice with the use of human stem cells.