Roundups
Health Apr 29
U.S. Justice Department indicts former NIAID adviser David Morens.
The U.S. Justice Department announced that a federal grand jury has indicted Dr. David M. Morens, a former senior adviser in the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Office of the Director. Morens worked closely with then-NIAID Director Dr. Anthony Fauci. The charges accuse him of conspiring to evade federal recordkeeping and public-transparency requirements during the COVID-19 pandemic. This development highlights ongoing scrutiny of federal officials' handling of information during the health crisis.
Leadership changes occur at San Antonio's Hospital Claudio Vicuña.
Christian Smith has taken over as interim director of San Antonio's Hospital Claudio Vicuña following the resignation of Loreto Maturana, who had hired former minister Jeanette Vega as medical subdirector. Smith confirmed that nine specialists who had planned to resign have suspended their decisions. He also stated that Vega possesses the necessary technical qualifications for her role. Health Minister May Chomali justified Maturana's departure by citing a loss of trust in her leadership. These changes aim to stabilize hospital operations amid internal disputes.
German government finalizes health reform draft targeting savings.
Following Chancellor Merz's announcement that the bill was nearly ready, the German government completed its health reform draft on April 28. The plan aims for 16.3 billion euros in savings starting from 2027, reduced from an initial target of 19.6 billion euros, to address a 15.3 billion euro deficit at statutory health insurers. The Greens have criticized the measure as a burden on insured individuals and companies. Health Minister Nina Warken described the draft as balanced. Cabinet approval is scheduled for Wednesday.
University of Utah scientists develop peptide macrocyclization method.
Scientists at the University of Utah have reported that a radical SAM enzyme called PapB can connect the ends of certain therapeutic peptides to create stable, ring-shaped structures. In experiments detailed in ACS Bio & Med Chem Au, the enzyme successfully macrocyclized GLP-1-like peptides, including versions with nonstandard amino acids used in modern incretin drugs. Researchers suggest this method could improve the resistance of GLP-1 medicines like semaglutide, found in Ozempic and Wegovy, to enzymatic breakdown in the body. The approach holds potential for advancing peptide-based therapeutics.
Kenyan teachers' union signs deal averting SHA medical scheme strike.
Amid strike threats and mediation efforts over the transition to the Social Health Authority medical scheme, the teachers' union KNUT, SHA, and the Ministry of Health signed an agreement on April 28 to resolve disputes and prevent a nationwide walkout. The deal restores last expense benefits to Ksh300,000 and eliminates tariff locks that had caused friction. This resolution ensures continuity in medical coverage for teachers during the ongoing shift to the new authority structure. The agreement followed intensive negotiations to address union concerns.