Author Archives: Steve Bryson PhD

MicroRNAs Can Predict Response to Spinraza, Study Suggests

MicroRNAs isolated from people with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) types 2 and 3 before treatment predicted eventual responses to Spinraza (nusinersen) therapy, a study suggested. The study, “Muscle microRNAs in the cerebrospinal fluid predict clinical response to nusinersen therapy in type II and type III…

Combining Therapies May Improve Efficacy in SMA: Mouse Model

A combined spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) therapy — one incorporating two treatments targeting different disease processes related to the SMN protein — showed improved efficacy over single treatments in a mouse model. The findings support further research into combination treatment strategies, the researchers said. A combined therapy could potentially…

Spinraza Most Effective in Younger Type 1 Children: Real-world Study

In a real-world study involving more than 40 Swiss patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), Spinraza (nusinersen) was found to effectively improve motor function — particularly among younger children with SMA type 1. Older treated patients gained or stabilized their motor function, but infections prompted the need for ventilation and…

Using Ultrasound May Help in SBMA Diagnosis, Study Shows

Men with spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA) were found to have abnormally small nerves in the limbs, especially the arms, as measured by ultrasound, a study showed. These findings support the use of ultrasound as an additional tool to identify SBMA and improve selection for genetic testing, the…

Negotiations on Evrysdi Availability, Pricing in Canada Now Complete

Roche Canada has completed its negotiations with the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance (pCPA) regarding the availability and pricing of Evrysdi (risdiplam), an approved once-a-day oral therapy for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The pCPA is a nationwide organization in Canada that collaborates on various public drug plan initiatives to manage…