ASCLS eNewsBytes

• Old Muscle Stem Cells Can Act Young Again But There's a Catch July 6, 2026
  Scientists found that aging muscles heal more slowly due to a buildup of the protein NDRG1 in older muscle stem cells, which hinders their repair response post-injury. Interestingly, this protein also aids in cell survival under aging stresses, enabling the cells to persist longer.
• Smoking May Lower Sjögren Disease Risk and Mask Pathology July 6, 2026
  This duality arises as tobacco smoke can activate both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory pathways. The link between tobacco and Sjögren disease is not well understood, and no in vitro studies have examined the direct effects of cigarette smoke extract on salivary gland epithelial cells.
• First Generic of Priftin Approved by FDA for Tuberculosis Treatment and Prevention July 6, 2026
  The FDA has approved the first generic version of Priftin tablets, essential for treating both active and latent tuberculosis. Rifapentine, a key ingredient, is part of CDC-recommended regimens for latent TB infection, which affects around 13 million people in the U.S., highlighting the need for effective preventive therapies.
• FDA Approves Palbociclib Combination for Advanced HR-Positive HER2-Positive Breast Cancer July 6, 2026
  The FDA approved the addition of the CDK4/6 inhibitor palbociclib to standard first-line maintenance therapy based on the pivotal phase III PATINA trial results, which showed a 24% reduction in the risk of progression or death and significantly prolonged progression-free survival compared to standard therapy alone.
• Genetic Test Ranks Risk for Black People Hoping to Donate a Kidney July 6, 2026
  New evidence indicates that genetic testing for potential Black kidney donors can identify those at higher risk for low kidney function, which may complicate health outcomes post-donation.