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  • Aimee Barrett-Theron to referee opening match of Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025

    Aimee Barrett-Theron to referee opening match of Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025

    • Appointments of Emirates World Rugby Match Officials for the 24 Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 pool matches
    • Three referees to make Rugby World Cup debuts in the middle
    • Sara Cox to become first female to referee 50 tests with Japan v Spain on 7 September
    • Match official profiles are available in the World Rugby Media Zone

    South Africa’s Aimee Barrett-Theron will referee the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 opening match between hosts England and 1991 champions USA at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland on 22 August.

    With excitement building around the world as the countdown hits 44 days to go, World Rugby has announced the Emirates Match Official appointments for the 24 matches that make up the pool stage of what promises to be the biggest and best-ever Women’s Rugby World Cup.

    VIEW APPOINTMENTS >>

    In May, a team of 22 Emirates Match Officials (10 referees, six assistant referees and six Television Match Officials) were selected for the showcase event in England, which runs from 22 August to 27 September across eight host locations.

    It will be the second time that the South African official has been handed the honour of refereeing the opening match, having also taken charge of England’s encounter with Spain at Women’s Rugby World Cup 2017 in Ireland.

    A significant milestone will be reached on the last day of the pool stage on 7 September with Sara Cox (England) to become the first female to referee 50 test matches when she takes charge of Japan v Spain at York Community Stadium in York.

    Clara Munarini (Italy) will be in the middle for the final match of the pool stage later that day, the Pool D meeting between France and South Africa at Franklin’s Gardens in Northampton.

    Emirates World Rugby Match Official appointment highlights

    • Aimee Barrett-Theron (South Africa) will be assisted in the opening match by Natarsha Ganley (New Zealand) and Maria Heitor (Portugal) with Leo Colgan (Ireland) as Television Match Official and Rachel Horton (Australia) as Foul Play Review Official.
    • Heitor will become the first Portuguese official on the Rugby World Cup stage.
    • Precious Pazani (Zimbabwe) will follow suit as the first African female from outside South Africa when she is an assistant referee for the other Pool A match on the opening weekend between Australia v Samoa in Manchester a day later.
    • Sara Cox will officiate in her fifth Women’s Rugby World Cup, having had appointments as an assistant referee in 2010 and 2014 before refereeing in the last two tournaments.
    • Natarsha Ganley, Ella Goldsmith (Australia) and Kat Roche (USA) will make their Rugby World Cup refereeing debuts, the latter having been an assistant referee in New Zealand.
    • Goldsmith will take charge of New Zealand’s opening match of their title defence, against Spain in York on 24 August.
    • Four officials will referee three matches in the pool stage in Maggie Cogger-Orr (New Zealand), Cox, Aurélie Groizeleau (France) and Hollie Davidson (Scotland).
    • Groizeleau’s first appointment – Canada v Fiji in York on 23 August – will be her 40th test as a referee, making her the fourth female to reach the milestone after Barrett-Theron, Cox and Davidson.
    • Cox’s third match in the pool stage – Japan v Spain in York on 7 September – will see her become the first female to take charge of 50 tests and the 16th overall in test history.
    • Davidson will referee Brazil’s first-ever Women’s Rugby World Cup match against South Africa in Northampton on 24 August.

    Chair of Emirates World Rugby Match Officials Selection Committee and Executive Board member, Su Carty said: “Firstly, a big congratulations to the match officials, who have earned their place and appointments on merit. Rugby is a team sport, and every step of the way, this group of exceptional people have worked tirelessly as a team to calibrate, review and advance. This will continue throughout Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025. I know that they are all excited in playing their part in facilitating great matches that will be at the heart of an era-defining competition.”

    World Rugby Women’s High Performance Referee Manager Alhambra Nievas said: “Congratulations to all our match officials. Everyone will play their part in the pool phase. With less than 50 days to go, we are all now focused on being the best we can be on and off the field. There is an incredible camaraderie and bond within this group, and I look forward to seeing our team in action, doing what they do best at Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025.”

    Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 panel

    Referees: Aimee Barrett-Theron (South Africa), Maggie Cogger-Orr (New Zealand), Sara Cox (England), Hollie Davidson (Scotland), Ella Goldsmith (Australia), Natarsha Ganley (New Zealand), Aurélie Groizeleau (France), Lauren Jenner (Italy), Clara Munarini (Italy), Kat Roche (USA).

    Assistant referees: Maria Heitor (Portugal), Jess Ling (Australia), Amelia Luciano (USA), Precious Pazani (Zimbabwe, reserve referee), Amber Stamp-Dunstan (Wales), Holly Wood (England).

    Television Match Officials: Leo Colgan (Ireland), Rachel Horton (Australia), Quinton Immelman (South Africa), Matteo Liperini (Italy), Andrew McMenemy (Scotland), Ian Tempest (England).

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  • Diagnostic dilemma: Orgasm involving a kitchen whisk likely triggered person’s fatal aneurysm

    Diagnostic dilemma: Orgasm involving a kitchen whisk likely triggered person’s fatal aneurysm

    The deceased: A 39-year-old woman in Belgrade, Serbia

    The discovery: The woman’s ex-husband found the woman’s body in her apartment and notified the police. She was lying on her left side on the living room couch, and her body was covered by a blanket.

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  • A multi-target strategy to support healthy aging

    A multi-target strategy to support healthy aging

    Research has identified key mechanisms driving aging and actionable targets for promoting longevity. A promising strategy is to preserve the cell’s ability to produce energy, repair DNA, and stress resilience, with nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) playing a central role. Here, Dr. Rebecca Crews presents a multi-target approach to support healthy aging

    Decades of research have uncovered key mechanisms driving the aging process, identifying actionable targets to support longevity. One of the most promising strategies is preserving the cell’s capacity for energy production, DNA repair, and stress resilience. Central to all of these processes is nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a coenzyme that fuels hundreds of metabolic reactions, including mitochondrial ATP production and sirtuin-mediated cellular maintenance.

    It is known that NAD+ levels significantly diminish with age. This decline is tightly linked to the hallmarks of aging, contributing to mitochondrial dysfunction, impaired repair, cellular senescence, and age-related damage. Restoring NAD+ levels closer to youthful norms has, therefore, become a major focus within longevity science.

    However, simply boosting NAD+ with precursors addresses only one aspect of a complex issue. A truly effective strategy tackles the root causes of NAD+ decline and maximizes outcomes. Therefore, a thoughtful strategy involves a multi-pronged approach: slowing NAD+ degradation, supporting its synthesis, and improving how NAD+-dependent pathways function (Sharma et al., 2023).

    The foundation: NAD+ precursors

    The most straightforward way to boost NAD+ levels is by supplying the body with its molecular precursors.

    The two most widely used options are:

    • Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) or Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN): Both convert efficiently into NAD+ via the salvage pathway. Human trials consistently report 40–60% increases in blood NAD+ at daily doses of 250–1,000 mg (Conlon & Ford, 2022).

    Choosing between NR, NMN, or using both typically depends on individual goals and cost. Consistent, daily dosing is key to maintaining elevated NAD+ levels.

    Enhancing efficiency: Sirtuin activators

    Many of NAD+’s health benefits stem from its role in fueling sirtuins, a family of NAD+-dependent enzymes that drive DNA repair, metabolic balance, stress resilience, and inflammation control. Sirtuin Activating Compounds (STACs) amplify these protective functions:

    • Resveratrol:
      • A grape polyphenol that directly stimulates SIRT1. Its poor bioavailability is improved when taken with dietary fat or via advanced delivery systems (e.g., liposomal encapsulation, and solid-lipid nanoparticles).
    • Pterostilbene:
      • A blueberry-derived analog of resveratrol that achieves higher plasma levels and may exert stronger SIRT1 activation.

    Combining NAD+ precursors with STACs ensures both ample substrate and maximized sirtuin function (Sharma et al., 2023).

    Protecting the pool: CD38 Inhibitors

    CD38 is a major NADase whose activity increases with age and chronic inflammation, accelerating NAD+ depletion. Inhibiting CD38 conserves existing NAD+, keeping it available for beneficial pathways like sirtuin mediated repair.

    Natural flavonoids have emerged as promising CD38 inhibitors:

    • Apigenin:
      • Abundant in chamomile, parsley, and celery, apigenin blocks CD38 in preclinical models, elevating NAD+ and downstream sirtuin activity. It also delivers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits (Kramer & Johnson, 2024).
    • Quercetin:
      • A common flavonoid found in onions, apples, and berries, quercetin inhibits CD38 and offers potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and senolytic benefits (Chini et al., 2018).

    Flavonoid CD38 inhibitors offer multiple benefits: they simultaneously preserve NAD+, reduce oxidative stress, and curb inflammatory signaling.

    Clearing the way: Senolytics

    Senescent cells accumulate with age, acting as cellular “zombies” that resist death while secreting pro-inflammatory factors (SASP). This SASP, in turn, boosts CD38 in nearby cells, leading to faster NAD+ depletion.

    Key senolytics (compounds that selectively eliminate these “zombie” cells) include:

    • Fisetin: Found in strawberries and apples, this flavonoid has demonstrated the ability to reduce senescent cell burden, enhance health span, and extend lifespan in aged mice (Yousefzadeh et al., 2018).
    • Spermidine: This polyamine, present in fermented foods and legumes, induces autophagy and may support the clearance of senescent cells. It’s associated with improved cardiovascular health and lifespan in mice (Hofer et al., 2022).

    Calming the storm: Anti-inflammatory support

    Chronic inflammation, a hallmark of aging, further depletes NAD+ by increasing CD38 activity. Resolving this inflammation is key to preserving the NAD+ pool and creating a healthier cellular environment:

    • Curcumin: The active compound in turmeric, suppresses NF-κB and COX-2 signaling and may indirectly support sirtuins. Due to poor absorption, high-bioavailability formulations are essential (Hegde et al., 2023).
    • Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA & DHA): These fish oil–derived fats integrate into cell membranes to reduce inflammatory signals and serve as building blocks for specialized pro resolving mediators (SPMs) that actively shut down inflammation (Kavani et al., 2022).

    Synergistic anti-inflammatory effects have been observed when curcumin and omega-3 fatty acids are administered together (Saw et al., 2010).

    Integrating the stack: Synergy and practical considerations

    This multi-component stack represents a strategic and comprehensive approach to NAD+ metabolism. NAD+ precursors ensure ample substrate supply, STACs optimize its efficient use, CD38 inhibitors protect against its premature breakdown, senolytics reduce the detrimental burden of senescent ‘zombie’ cells, and targeted anti-inflammatory compounds re- establish cellular homeostasis. The goal is a synergistic effect that promotes overall cellular resilience.

    However, implementation requires attention:

    • Lifestyle first: Supplements cannot replace a foundation of a healthy diet, regular exercise, quality sleep, social connection, and stress management.
    • Gradual introduction: Start supplements one by one (“start low, go slow”) to gauge individual tolerance.
    • Quality is key: Opt for reputable brands that provide third-party testing for purity and potency.
    • Personalization: Monitor biomarkers and subjective well being.

    Conclusion: A balanced perspective on NAD+ optimization

    Supporting NAD+ levels is a promising strategy in the effort to maintain cellular function and health with age. The approach outlined here – boosting NAD+ production, reducing its breakdown, improving how it’s used, and supporting the broader cellular environment – reflects the current understanding of NAD+ as a dynamic and interconnected system.

    NAD+ boosting strategies should be seen as a flexible starting point, not a one-size-fits-all solution. As research advances, more personalized strategies will likely become available, guided by individual health data and deeper insights into NAD+ biology.

    Importantly, NAD+support works best as part of a bigger picture. Lasting health and longevity depend just as much on diet, exercise, sleep, stress management, and social connection. Keeping these foundations strong while staying informed about new science is the most practical way to approach NAD+ optimization today.

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  • Blood flow restriction can match gym gains without joint strain

    Blood flow restriction can match gym gains without joint strain

    Can you build serious strength without heavy weights? A clinical trial comparing resistance training and blood flow restriction methods highlights options for those seeking gains without joint stress.

    Study: Comparative analysis of high-intensity resistance training and blood flow restriction training on enhancing upper limb muscle strength and mass. Image credit: Ground Picture/Shutterstock.com

    A recent paper published in the journal Frontiers in Physiology compares the effects of two types of exercise training on upper limb muscle mass and strength. The results could help redirect people unsuitable for high-intensity training to another alternative.

    Introduction

    High-intensity resistance training (HIRT) is an effective way to achieve upper limb muscle growth, but at a higher risk of damaging the joints, ligaments, or tendons in this injury-prone area. Low-intensity training uses a low training load with more repetitions, increasing the time required. Though it is safer than HIRT, it is also less effective, reducing the final muscle hypertrophy.

    Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFRT) is a low-intensity alternative to HIRT. Also known as KAATSU training, BFRT is a novel method of strength training in which external pressure is applied to the limbs using specially designed pressure equipment. This pressure obstructs venous blood flow completely and arterial flow partly. The outcome is more intense body stimulation at each load level, the goal being to increase muscle strength and size and boost endurance.

    BFRT could be a safe middle path that confers muscle growth and strength comparable to that with HIRT, but with less risk of injury. BFRT combined with short-term intensive strength training improved body composition and cardiac performance, enhancing cardiovascular fitness. This is the case in young and elderly participants after a short-term intervention.

    BFRT has also been demonstrated in the rehabilitation of post-surgical patients, for instance, after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Here, it improves muscle thickness and strength, helping the patient regain function. BFRT also prevents injury in older adults by increasing bone strength and exercise capacity.

    BFRT can be optimized by using an exercise intensity of 20% to 40% of one-repetition maximum strength (1RM) with a high number of repetitions, during two or three sessions per week. Pressure is applied to achieve 50% to 80% vessel blockade, though there is no consensus on whether to use absolute vs progressive pressure. Each of these affects upper limb training adaptation, but they have not been directly compared with each other or with HIRT, prompting the research in the current study.

    This study was a randomized controlled trial involving 34 participants, who were randomly assigned to one of three groups: the HIRT, BRTF with fixed pressure (BFRT-F), or BFRT with progressive pressure (BFRT-P).

    Study findings

    The 1RM increased significantly in all groups, with the best results in the HIRT group, followed by the BFRT-P group.

    The HIRT protocol increased all isokinetic muscle strength parameters. The highest was an increase of over 55% in the triceps extension. Peak torque increased significantly at the shoulder and elbow joints in the HIRT group compared with BFRT-F.

    The BFRT-P group experienced comparable increases in strength of between 30% and 40%. Though increases occurred in the BFRT-F group, the gains were significantly below those in the other groups. With the trunk and back muscle groups, the gains in peak torque were highest for HIRT (~3%) compared to both other groups.  Still, the BFRT-P group showed a marked improvement in peak torque compared to BFRT-F.

    Despite being inferior to the other groups’ outcomes, the BFRT-F also showed significantly higher peak torque in several joint extensors and flexors.

    The HIRT and BFRT-P groups, but not the BFRT-F group, demonstrated increased arm muscle circumference, especially during muscle contraction, signaling muscle hypertrophy. The most significant increase occurred in the HIRT group.

    Muscle mass increased in both the HIRT and BFRT-P groups. In the HIRT group, this increase was about 15.1% and 22.6% in the left and right arms, respectively, and 5.2% and 10.6% in the BFRT-P group, for the left and right arms, respectively. The BFRT-F group failed to show any significant change.  

    These findings followed the predicted pattern, probably because progressive pressure with BFRT-P causes greater metabolic stress. This, in turn, induces more hypoxia and results in the accumulation of metabolites in the muscle, the probable reason for its superiority to BFRT-F.

    Conclusion

    The study presents the first direct and controlled comparison of high-intensity resistance training with two blood flow restriction training modalities. It demonstrated that the best results were obtained with HIRT, confirming, as expected, “HIRT’s role as the gold standard for mechanical tension-driven adaptations”. In contrast, the BFRT-F group had the lowest gains.

    Notably, the BFRT-F group used a lower load at 30% 1RM but still showed strength gains, indicating that BFRT does play a role in improving strength. Certain studies suggest that BFRT can build muscle strength comparably to HIRT, but possibly only in trained individuals. BFRT may be especially important in training among older men, where it has sometimes been shown to be nearly as effective as HIRT, though the results are conflicting.

    The authors noted that using fixed, absolute pressures instead of individualized arterial occlusion pressures may have limited BFRT’s full potential. They also acknowledge the absence of a low-intensity resistance training group with BFRT, which limits comparisons between BFRT and conventional low-load training. Additionally, muscle strength was estimated using an indirect 1RM formula rather than measured directly, introducing possible error.

    “While HIRT is optimal for strength and hypertrophy, BFRT-P is a viable alternative for individuals contraindicated to high-intensity training.” The findings suggest that pressure progression may be crucial in maximizing results with BFRT. Future studies should explore the role of personalized arterial occlusion pressures and include a low-intensity control group to provide controls for low-load training without the effect of BFRT.

    Download your PDF copy now!

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  • Pakistan, Turkiye to strengthen economic, defence ties – RADIO PAKISTAN

    1. Pakistan, Turkiye to strengthen economic, defence ties  RADIO PAKISTAN
    2. Turkish foreign minister arrives in Islamabad, set to discuss bilateral issues  Dawn
    3. High level defence delegation of Turkiye calls on Air Chief Zaheer Sidhu  Ptv.com.pk
    4. Turkish FM, defence minister to meet Pak PM, look to boost defence ties  Business Standard
    5. Ministan Harkokin Waje da na Tsaro na Turkiyya za su ziyarci Pakistan  TRT Global

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  • Melting glaciers may trigger more volcanic eruptions, new research warns

    Melting glaciers may trigger more volcanic eruptions, new research warns

    As ice sheets thin in volcanic regions, scientists warn that eruptions could increase, potentially speeding up climate change and ice melt in a dangerous feedback loop.

    Bob Berwyn reports for Inside Climate News.

    In short:

    • New research in the Chilean Andes shows that melting glaciers during the last ice age unleashed volcanic eruptions by reducing pressure on magma systems.
    • More than 100 volcanoes lie beneath Antarctica’s West Antarctic Ice Sheet, where melting could destabilize ice from below and send ash and gases into the atmosphere.
    • Rising sea levels from ice melt may also increase seismic activity by adding water weight, a phenomenon observed around large reservoirs.

    Key quote:

    “When you take the load off, it’s just like opening a Coca-Cola bottle or a champagne bottle.”

    — Brad Singer, University of Wisconsin–Madison geoscientist and leader of the research

    Why this matters:

    Glacial melt is often seen as a symptom of climate change, but it may also be a driver of it. As thick ice sheets retreat from volcanic regions, they lift the heavy lid that has kept pressure on underground magma systems. This sudden release can trigger explosive eruptions, sending heat-trapping gases and ash into the atmosphere and, in Antarctica, melting ice from below. That dual effect not only accelerates global warming but threatens sea level rise on a much faster timeline. Volcanoes beneath the West Antarctic Ice Sheet could destabilize a region already vulnerable to warm ocean currents.

    Read more: Scientists document the global disappearance of glaciers

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  • Elinzanetant approved by MHRA to treat menopause hot flushes

    Elinzanetant approved by MHRA to treat menopause hot flushes

    image: ©Highwaystarz-Photography iStock

    Elinzanetant offers a new, non-hormonal treatment option for menopausal hot flushes and night sweats. Now approved by the MHRA, it provides symptom relief for women seeking alternatives to hormone therapy

    The MHRA has become the first medical regulator in the world to approve elinzanetant, a novel non-hormonal oral agent, for the treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause. This approval introduces a new therapeutic option targeting neurokinin receptor pathways, expanding treatment possibilities beyond hormone replacement therapy.

    The new marketing authorisation was granted on 8 July 2025 to Bayer plc. 

    Elinzanetant significantly reduced the number and intensity of hot flushes

    Approximately 13 million women in the UK are going through perimenopause or menopause, with up to 80% expected to experience hot flushes during the menopause transition, and many remaining untreated.

    When oestrogen levels drop during menopause, specific brain cells become overactive and interrupt the body’s ability to control temperature, which leads to hot flushes and night sweats. 

    Elinzanetant works by calming these signals in the brain, helping to bring the body’s temperature back to a normal level. The medication can also help alleviate sleep problems and is administered in tablet form.

    Julian Beach, MHRA Interim Executive Director of Healthcare Quality and Access, said:  “Hot flushes and night sweats associated with menopause can have a significant negative impact on quality of life.  

    “We are therefore pleased to announce our approval of elinzanetant, which has met the MHRA’s standards for safety, quality, and effectiveness. 

    Elinzanetant offers a non-hormonal alternative for those who may not be able to, or prefer not to, take hormone-based therapies. As with all licensed medicines, we will continue to monitor its safety closely as it becomes more widely used.” 

    Successful in-human clinical trial

    Elinzanetant’s approval is based on results from the OASIS clinical trials, which involved over 1,400 women aged 40 to 65 across several countries.

    The Phase III OASIS 1 and 2 clinical trials were randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies evaluating the efficacy and safety of elinzanetant in menopausal women experiencing moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms, such as hot flushes and night sweats. Participants received a daily oral dose of 120 mg elinzanetant or placebo for 12 weeks. Results showed that elinzanetant significantly reduced both the frequency and severity of hot flushes compared to placebo, with improvements observed early in the treatment course. Secondary outcomes also demonstrated enhancements in sleep quality and overall menopause-related quality of life.

    “Menopausal symptoms are frequent side effects of endocrine therapy for breast cancer, often leading to treatment discontinuation, which is why management of these symptoms can play an important role in breast cancer treatment,” said Dr. Fatima Cardoso, Principal Investigator of OASIS-4, from Lisbon, Portugal. “With no currently approved treatments for this indication, there is an unmet medical need for therapeutic options.”

    “The robust efficacy and favourable safety profile of elinzanetant reinforces its potential as a non-hormonal treatment for women experiencing menopause,” said Dr. Christian Rommel, member of the Executive Committee of Bayer AG’s Pharmaceutical Division and Global Head of Research and Development. “We look forward to submitting applications to health authorities for marketing authorisations of elinzanetant to treat moderate to severe VMS associated with menopause in women, building upon our extensive legacy and commitment to women’s healthcare.” 

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  • ANP suffers setback as Samar Haroon Bilour joins PML-N – Samaa TV

    1. ANP suffers setback as Samar Haroon Bilour joins PML-N  Samaa TV
    2. PTI-backed lawmaker Chaudhry Usman Ali ‘joins PML-N’  Dawn
    3. MNA Ch. Usman calls on prime minister  Associated Press of Pakistan
    4. PTI Azad Kashmir declares a historic reference against the Defense Assembly, decisive war against looted politics  Daily Parliament Times
    5. PTI to file reference against four defected MNAs  Pakistan Today

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  • Charting the course: UCB’s latest research on TK2d illuminates patient journeys

    Charting the course: UCB’s latest research on TK2d illuminates patient journeys

    UCB is committed to understanding and addressing the unmet needs of patients living with thymidine kinase 2 deficiency (TK2d), an ultra-rare, life-threatening mitochondrial disease with a high mortality rate. According to a meta-analysis presented at the 2023 ISPOR conference, TK2d has an estimated prevalence of 1.64 per million people, with a range of 0.5 to 3.1 per million.  People living with TK2d face severe muscle weakness that can worsen over time and impact on activities as essential as walking, eating and breathing. To develop innovative solutions for TK2d, it’s crucial to understand the natural course of the disease, which is why we have focused on disease course research as part of our efforts to understand the landscape of TK2d care.
     

    Understanding TK2d: a patient-centric approach
    At the European Pediatric Neurology Society (EPNS) 2025 conference, we are proud to be able to share significant findings on the natural disease course of TK2d patients with symptom onset at or before 12 years of age, and qualitative work on patients lived experience, both highlighting UCB’s dedication to understanding patient experiences and outcomes through rigorous research.  The natural disease course study, funded by UCB, one of the first of its kind, is part of the largest international dataset on TK2d, providing crucial insights into the disease progression and disease burden impact on patients.

    UCB presents qualitative narratives collected from a worldwide sample of patients and caregivers in a study that further illustrates the impact of TK2d on all aspects of an affected person’s life.
     

    The value of disease course studies
    Disease course studies are important for ultra-rare conditions like TK2d because these conditions often lack sufficient research, understanding, and data due to their rarity. The study looked at those patients with early-onset TK2d (symptom onset 12 years and younger) and found the disease was associated with high mortality and rapid progression of the disease, with many experiencing critical motor skill loss and requiring ventilatory support within a short timeframe. Our survival analysis research also found that the median time from symptom onset to death was just 2.6 years for patients with an age of symptom onset of less than 12 years, highlighting the urgent need for improved management and care strategies.

    The disease course study utilized a comprehensive disease course dataset involving two literature reviews of published case series, case reports and a retrospective chart review study of untreated patients, and another set of pre-treatment data from three UCB-sponsored clinical trials and data from UCB-supported expanded access programs (EAPs).

    This approach ensured robust data collection and analysis to provide accurate depictions of the disease burden. By deepening the understanding of TK2d’s progression, UCB aims to inform better supportive care strategies for people living with the disease.
     

    A holistic approach to patient care
    These research efforts reflect UCB’s patient-first approach, which goes beyond treatment to holistically understanding the patient journey, ensuring that the voices and experiences of those living with TK2d are at the forefront of scientific advancement. By prioritizing patient needs and experiences, UCB strives to help address the unique challenges faced by TK2d patients and their families.

    As we continue to explore new frontiers in TK2d research, UCB remains focused on delivering impactful solutions that empower patients and improve their quality of life. For more information on UCB’s initiatives and research in TK2d, visit UCB Stories.

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  • Christian Horner to exit Red Bull with immediate effect with Laurent Mekies taking over as CEO

    Christian Horner to exit Red Bull with immediate effect with Laurent Mekies taking over as CEO

    Red Bull Racing CEO and Team Principal Christian Horner is to exit the squad with immediate effect, with Racing Bulls team boss Laurent Mekies taking over, it was announced on Wednesday.

    Horner has held the role for some 20 years – the Briton leading Red Bull through their first F1 season back in 2005 and playing a key role in turning them from points scorers into World Champions.

    “Red Bull has released Christian Horner from his operational duties with effect from today (Wednesday 9 July 2025) and has appointed Laurent Mekies as CEO of Red Bull Racing,” said a Red Bull spokesperson.

    “Oliver Mintzlaff, CEO Corporate Projects and Investments thanked Christian Horner for his exceptional work over the last 20 years.”

    “We would like to thank Christian Horner for his exceptional work over the last 20 years,” added Mintzlaff.

    “With his tireless commitment, experience, expertise and innovative thinking, he has been instrumental in establishing Red Bull Racing as one of the most successful and attractive teams in Formula 1.

    “Thank you for everything, Christian, and you will forever remain an important part of our team history.”

    As part of the managerial reshuffle, current Racing Bulls Racing Director Alan Permane will be promoted to Team Principal at the sister outfit.

    “The last year and a half has been an absolute privilege to lead the team with Peter [Bayer, Racing Bulls CEO],” commented Mekies.

    “It has been an amazing adventure to contribute to the birth of Racing Bulls together with all our talented people. The spirit of the whole team is incredible, and I strongly believe that this is just the beginning.

    “Alan is the perfect man to take over now and continue our path. He knows the team inside out and has always been an important pillar of our early successes.”

    Permane added: “I feel very honoured to take on the role as Team Principal and would like to thank Oliver and Helmut [Marko, Red Bull advisor] for the trust they have shown in me.

    “I am looking forward to working with Peter to continue the good work that both him and Laurent have done in taking this team forward.

    “This is a new challenge for me, but I know that I can count on the support of everyone within them.”

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