Latest news with #Parkinsonian
The Herald Scotland
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
I haven't fallen over on stage yet, says Del Amitri's Justin Currie
'I suddenly realised that in between taking mouthfuls of sushi, my hand was shaking and it looked like I was sitting there by myself, conducting a tiny orchestra in between mouthfuls with my chopsticks. Sometimes you can see people looking at you wondering what's going on.' Gavin - the name Currie has given his Parkinson's tremor - knows what's going on. He's been gradually making himself known in the singer's right hand for the last few years, and now he's started taking a real interest in the rest of the 60 year old's body too. 'My balance isn't what it was and if I turn too quickly I get quite disorientated,' said Currie, sitting in a coffee shop in Glasgow's west end, without chopsticks, and remarkably balanced in more ways than one. 'I haven't fallen over on stage yet, but if I do, then I'll probably joke about it.' Read more This wry stance is nothing new for followers of Justin Currie. He's been writing poison-tipped songs about self-inflicted pain for decades, spinning pop gold from imagined tales about being the last to know, taking adulterous roads to ruin, kissing things goodbye and nothing ever happening. Followers of his enjoyably sour online tour blogs have grown familiar with his on–the-road nihilism since he first booted up his laptop in 2008, a vent which will take the form of a book to be released later this summer. Its title, The Tremolo Diaries, is nicked from the Radio 4 documentary he made last year when he came out as a Parkinsonian, as he calls his fellow sufferers Subtitled Life On The Road And Other Diseases it deals with the fall-out from a hellish triumvirate of turns even he would have thought too heavy for any of the characters in his songs. And, funny stories about chopsticks in sushi restaurants or not, Currie has suffered. In a few dreadful weeks at the end of December 2022, he lost his mother to cancer, saw his girlfriend severely debilitated by a stroke and received the dreaded confirmed diagnosis of a condition which has been robbing him ever since of the talent which has made him one of the country's most popular and successful songwriters and live singers. No surprise, perhaps, that one day a few months later, he couldn't get up in the morning. And it had nothing to do with the disease's depletive impact on his motor skills. 'They give you a leaflet when they tell you you have Parkinson's,' he said. 'It's actually a really good leaflet, and on page five it says that everybody who gets Parkisnon's gets depressed. I've never been depressed before, but one day, a few months later, I couldn't get out of bed.' Del Amitri (Image: free) A combination of antidepressants and 'talking about it' helped Currie put his feet back on the ground a few weeks later. He talks about Parkinson's a lot now, and 'really likes' doing it, 'to the point where I tell my mates in the pub to tell me to shut up.' Unsurprisingly, Currie's reflections on the aftermath of his personal 2022 trainwreck have found their way into songs he's written for a new Del Amitri record, which he hopes will be released next year, and which, he warned, are 'definitely grim.' 'But I think they're good,' he said. 'If I thought they were sh** then I wouldn't share them.' Talk about stoking expectations. Currie is, after all, the man who delivered 1989's state of the nation address Nothing Ever Happens, in which he laid to waste the decade's trends of mass consumerism, the hollow monotony of the nine to five and the casual acceptance of ethnic persecution, decades before the first doom scroller logged into their social media. These songs, Currie said, are different from before. 'I faked a lot of emotional pain before,' he said. 'But having gone through all the shit with my mum dying, then Emma's stroke and my confirmed diagnosis, it's all coming from real life rather than invented dramatic scenes. I've written lots of songs about death and disease in the past. Those sorts of songs are easier to write now. One's mother dying at 86 is sad but it isn't tragic. All three things coming at once was traumatic, although I didn't think it was until I started writing songs about it.' As before, the bitter comes wrapped in the sweet. Even at their bleakest, Del Amitri know a hooky melody. Read more 'It definitely has the tunes,' said Currie of the new LP, still in early gestation. 'I was wary at first, but I really like it now.' Whether the Dels will play any of the tunes at this month's gig under the big top at Queen's Park in Glasgow is anyone's guess. Currie doesn't know how well he'll perform, let alone what. 'It's harder with Parkinson's. I can't play as well as I used to, and that's endlessly frustrating.' The band last performed a double header in Barrowlands at the turn of the year. Gavin is noticeable on Currie's right hand when he sings, and has been for a few years, but the impact on the overall quality remains distinctly minimal. Nevertheless, the band have had The Chat about knowing when to call it quits. He's already killed off any notion of playing solo again, but with the support of his Dels mates he hopes there's road ahead yet. 'The only thing I know how to do is write songs and sing them somewhere,' he said. 'I don't want to get obsessed by that thought. It'll happen when it happens.' Del Amitri play Summer Nights on the Southside, Glasgow, on June 26, with King Creosote, Withered Hand + Kathryn Williams and Alice Faye
News.com.au
05-05-2025
- Business
- News.com.au
Health Check: Biotechs recover as peace descends on the FDA
The US health sector shows signs of stabilising as chaos subsides Immutep will meet with the FDA following 'excellent' follow-on trial results When it comes to its sagging share price, Immuron leaves blame-shifting to the defeated Liberals Has the US healthcare scene reached peak mayhem? After the tariff uncertainties, Food & Drug Administration (FDA) staff cuts and the gutting of the National Institutes of Health, conditions appear to be settling. This is reflected in the Nasdaq biotech index, which has recovered 15% from its April 8 nadir – then a 33% decline from August 2021 peak levels. Year to date the index has fallen 1.6%. Bell Potter notes new FDA Marty Makary has stressed the agency's staff cuts – 3500 out of an 18,000 strong workforce – have not involved case reviewers and other science-y roles. 'This corroborates feedback from many ASX companies advising FDA engagements in recent months have been conducted per agreed timelines,' the firm says. After announcing the company's US partnership worth up to $940 million, Dimerix (ASX:DXB) chief Dr Nina Webster said a meeting with the FDA to discuss the use of surrogate endpoints in a trial was 'held on time and the review team was intact.' Makary has also flagged streamlining the post-marketing review process for rare disease drugs, to enable them to be approved faster in the first place. This benefits Dimerix, which is eyeing potential fast-track approval for its rare kidney disease drug. Bell Potter describes Makaray as a 'relatively pragmatic Commissioner unlikely to plunge the FDA into chaos.' Alterity is in the fast lane As if on cue, the FDA has also granted fast-track designation to Alterity Therapeutics (ASX:ATH) for its investigational drug to treat multiple system atrophy (MSA). This follows positive results from the company's phase II trial, which showed a 'statistically significant' improvement in how patients go about their daily lives. A so-called Parkinsonian disorder, MSA results in similar gait problems, shuffling and tremors. On January Alterity shares more than doubled after the company released the phase II results – and they perked up about 10% on this morning's news. Fast-track status enables more frequent and earlier communication with the FDA, with any new drug application reviewed on a quicker rolling basis. Alterity's therapy also has orphan drug designation, which confers benefits such as marketing exclusivity and higher pricing. Immutep shares surge on cancer trial results Still on cancer immunotherapy, Immutep (ASX:IMM) will seek a meeting with the FDA after reporting 'excellent' results for its phase IIb head and neck cancer trial. Aimed at head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs), the trial combines the company's Efti therapy with the standard of care Keytruda. The company reports the combination resulted in median overall survival of 17.6 months, in a 31-patient cohort with a low incidence of the biomarker PD-L1. Overall survival is how long a patient lives from the time of diagnosis or treatment until their death, regardless of the cause. The data 'compares favourably' with standard of care approaches resulting in overall survival between 7.9 months and 11.3 months. Earlier, the company reported multiple complete responses (the cancer had gone away). The company says these patients have a high unmet medical need, given the lack of available treatment options without chemotherapy. 'We will meet with regulators to discuss next steps and potential paths to approval,' says CEO Marc Voigt. The company is also evaluating the protein eftilagimod – Efti to friends – for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and metastatic breast cancer. The FDA has accorded fast-track status to Efti as a first-line treatment for HNSCC and NSCLC. Last week, the Nasdaq-listed ALX Oncology said its combination trial for HNSCC failed to meet primary endpoints in a phase II trial. The company has abandoned the program. Imugene explains share rout The US chaos has resulted in radical share moves for US-exposed ASX biotechs over the last month, such as cancer drug developer Imugene's (ASX:IMU) 23% sell-off. In a missive to shareholders, Imugene executive chair Paul Hopper and CEO Leslie Chong last week offer 'transparent explanations' as to why the company is worth $200 million today, compared to $3 billion in late 2021. They must have missed the memo about blaming challenging macro conditions and short-term investors, etcetera. They acknowledge slower than expected progress on Imugene's two key trial programs, CF33 and Oncarlytics. Another likely culprit is the lack of licensing deal, especially for the company's legacy program, Her Vaxx. The duo says the market perceives the company as a high cash-burn business – which is kinda right because drug development inherently is not cheap. In the meantime, short sellers account for an elevated 5.2% of the company's share register. 'We think this has had a knock-on effect to other sellers/investors who view a short position as an expectation that the share price will fall, and possibly this has dragged other sellers in.' Management has no control over that one. Health winners from Alban-easy victory Given he brandished his well-worn Medicare card during his victory speech, Anthony Albanese is expected to deliver swiftly on Labor's promise to expand the availability of bulk-billing doctors. If more patients visit their doc, there will be an expected rise in flow-on referrals to pathology and radiology providers. While the overall market opened slightly lower this morning, shares in Sonic Healthcare (ASX:SHL), Healius (ASX:HLS), Australian Clinical Labs (ASX:ACL) and Integral Diagnostics (ASX:IDX) enjoyed a faint Albo glow. But it remains to be seen whether subdued volumes return to historical levels.
Hindustan Times
23-04-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Stress to kidney disorder: Doctor breaks down 4 tremors that are not Parkinson's and how to spot them
Not all tremors indicate Parkinson's as various other disorders may cause shaking hence, understanding the differences helps in early diagnosis and proper management. Tremors or involuntary shaking movements are alarming, leading many to fear the worst which is Parkinson's disease however, it is essential to understand that not all tremors are a sign of Parkinsonism. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Shirish M Hastak, Regional Director of Neurology - Stroke and Neurocritical Care at Gleneagles Hospitals in Mumbai's Parel, explained, 'While Parkinson 's-related tremors are well-known, various other conditions can also cause shaking, many of which are not serious or progressive. Seeking early medical consultation can help in proper diagnosis and treatment.' Dr Shirish M Hastak said, 'Did you know? Tremors are involuntary, rhythmic muscle movements that can impact the parts of the body, mainly the hands, arms, legs, head, or voice. They may occur at rest, during movement, or while maintaining a posture. Tremors can be classified into different types, with Parkinson's tremors being just one category among many. Not all tremors mean Parkinson's disease so please check with your Physician or neurologist.' Parkinson's disease affects movement, causing symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slow movements. However, according to Dr Shirish M Hastak, various other conditions can lead to tremors - • Essential Tremor (ET): It is often mistaken for Parkinsonism. It usually affects the hands, head, or voice and worsens with movement, unlike Parkinson's tremor, which occurs more prominently at rest. • Physiological Tremor: Everyone experiences this mild, barely noticeable tremor during exams which can be induced due to stress, fatigue, caffeine, or anxiety. • Dystonic Tremor: Commonly seen in people with dystonia, a condition that causes involuntary muscle contractions, leading to abnormal movements. • Conditions like thyroid disorders, liver or kidney disease and low blood sugar levels can also lead to shaking and tremors. Dr Shirish M Hastak answered, 'Parkinson's tremors improve with movement, whereas essential tremors worsen with movement. Parkinsonian tremors usually start on one side of the body and progress gradually. Other symptoms accompany Parkinson's tremors, such as muscle stiffness, slowness of movement and balance problems.' Dr Shirish M Hastak shared, 'Neurological examination, MRI or CT scans to check for structural brain issues, Blood tests to examine thyroid, kidney and liver functions. Even Dopamine imaging scans (DaTscan) for detecting Parkinson's disease can be advised to the patient if there is uncertainty about the clinical diagnosis.' Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Dr Shirish M Hastak, said, 'For essential tremors, medications like beta-blockers or anticonvulsants can help. Lifestyle changes, stress management, and physical therapy can also be beneficial. In severe cases of essential tremors deep brain stimulation (DBS) may be considered. If tremors result from medication or metabolic disorders, addressing the root cause can often resolve the issue. With the appropriate approach, tremors can often be managed, allowing individuals to live without unnecessary fear or stress.' Talking about how lesioning surgery is also beneficial for some selected patients, Dr Shirish M Hastak said, 'This procedure stands out due to its immediate efficacy, affordability, and longevity. In patients who cannot, use a spoon or a glass due to severe tremors of the hand or the leg, this surgery can improve the quality of life. Lesioning surgery involves creating a small, controlled lesion in a highly targeted brain area.' He concluded, 'For patients who have struggled chronic symptoms of essential tremors for many years, the results are almost miraculous. Moreover, the reduced cost and shorter recovery time make it an accessible solution for many individuals who cannot afford deep brain stimulation. It represents a significant advancement in functional neurosurgery.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Associated Press
10-02-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Alterity Therapeutics Raises A$40.0 million in Placement
– Funds to be used primarily to advance development of ATH434 in Parkinsonian Disorders – – Capital raising was strongly supported by domestic and international institutional investors – MELBOURNE, Australia and SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Alterity Therapeutics (ASX: ATH, NASDAQ: ATHE) ('Alterity' or the 'Company'), a biotechnology company dedicated to developing disease modifying treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, today announced it has received binding commitments for a capital raising of A$40.0 million via a two tranche placement (the 'Placement') of fully paid ordinary shares ('New Shares') to Australian and international institutions and other unrelated sophisticated, professional or exempt investors. 'We are grateful for the strong response from the investment community and are proud to welcome a number of leading domestic and international institutions as shareholders in support of Alterity as we advance our lead compound ATH434 for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases,' said David Stamler, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Alterity. 'ATH434 has demonstrated significant slowing of clinical progression and a favourable safety profile in Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), a rare and rapidly progressive disease. We will use funds from this capital raise to accelerate ATH434 regulatory and development activities and to continue research and discovery of novel compounds for major indications such as Parkinson's disease. Given the strength of the data and the tremendous unmet need for treating MSA, I am looking forward to engaging with FDA on the best path to bring ATH434 to individuals with MSA as soon as possible.' MST Financial Services Pty Ltd (MST) acted as sole manager of the offering. Placement details The Placement was fully subscribed and was conducted at A$0.011 per share, representing a discount of 8.3% to the last ASX closing price of ATH ordinary shares prior to the trading halt. For every three (3) new shares issued, one (1) free attaching option will be issued with an exercise price of A$0.028 and an expiry date on 26 February 2027 ('New Options'). Tranche one of the Placement is to raise approximately A$12.8 million via the issue of 1.2 billion New Shares ('Tranche One'). New Shares in Tranche One will be issued under the Company's available placement capacity pursuant to ASX Listing Rule 7.1 & 7.1a. The issue of New Shares forming Tranche One of the Placement is proposed to occur on or about 17 February 2025. Tranche two of the Placement is expected to raise approximately A$27.2 million via the issue of 2.5 billion New Shares ('Tranche Two'). New Shares issued under Tranche Two and the issue of all New Options are conditional on shareholder approval to be sought at an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Company which is expected to be held in late March 2025. Subject to satisfying the quotation conditions of ASX including the spread requirements set out in ASX Listing Rule 2.5, condition 6, the options are intended to be quoted on the ASX. All New Options will be issued under a transaction specific prospectus which will be lodged prior to the issue of the New Options. Tranche Two of the Placement includes an aggregate of A$0.15 million of commitments from related parties (directors and their associates), the commitments will be subject to shareholder approval which will be sought at the same general meeting. The Company CEO, David Stamler (or his nominee(s)), has also committed to subscribe under the Placement. The new shares to be issued will rank equally with existing ATH fully paid ordinary shares. Further details are set out in the Appendix 3B released to ASX at or about the same time as this announcement. Use of Proceeds The use of proceeds from this financing will provide Alterity a strong balance sheet to fund ongoing clinical development programs for ATH434, including planned advancements in MSA, continuing discovery and research efforts in neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's Disease, and general working capital. At the end of January, the company released positive topline results from its ATH434-201 Phase 2 clinical trial of ATH434. The data demonstrated a clinically meaningful benefit at both ATH434 doses studied and the trial achieved statistical significance at the 50 mg dose with 48% slowing of clinical progression on the Unified MSA Rating Scale (UMSARS), a functional rating scale that assesses disability on activities of daily living affected in MSA. In addition, ATH434 demonstrated a favorable safety profile and key MRI biomarker data showed iron stabilization in MSA affected brain regions. Based on the strength of these Phase 2 data, the company plans to engage with the FDA to discuss the path forward for accelerating the development of ATH434. About Alterity Therapeutics Limited Alterity Therapeutics is a clinical stage biotechnology company dedicated to creating an alternate future for people living with neurodegenerative diseases. The Company's lead asset, ATH434, has the potential to treat various Parkinsonian disorders and is currently being evaluated in two Phase 2 clinical trials in Multiple System Atrophy. Alterity also has a broad drug discovery platform generating patentable chemical compounds to treat the underlying pathology of neurological diseases. The Company is based in Melbourne, Australia, and San Francisco, California, USA. For further information please visit the Company's web site at This announcement was authorized by David Stamler, CEO of Alterity Therapeutics Limited. Investor and Media Contacts: Australia Ana Luiza Harrop [email protected] +61 452 510 255 U.S. Remy Bernarda +1 (415) 203-6386 Forward Looking Statements This press release contains 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company has tried to identify such forward-looking statements by use of such words as 'expects,' 'intends,' 'hopes,' 'anticipates,' 'believes,' 'could,' 'may,' 'evidences' and 'estimates,' and other similar expressions, but these words are not the exclusive means of identifying such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements are described in the sections titled 'Risk Factors' in the Company's filings with the SEC, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F as well as reports on Form 6-K, including, but not limited to the following: statements relating to the Company's drug development program, including, but not limited to the initiation, progress and outcomes of clinical trials of the Company's drug development program, including, but not limited to, ATH434, and any other statements that are not historical facts. Such statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those risks and uncertainties relating to the difficulties or delays in financing, development, testing, regulatory approval, production and marketing of the Company's drug components, including, but not limited to, ATH434, the ability of the Company to procure additional future sources of financing, unexpected adverse side effects or inadequate therapeutic efficacy of the Company's drug compounds, including, but not limited to, ATH434, that could slow or prevent products coming to market, the uncertainty of obtaining patent protection for the Company's intellectual property or trade secrets, the uncertainty of successfully enforcing the Company's patent rights and the uncertainty of the Company freedom to operate.
