Michela Luciano, PhD,  Science Writer—

Michela Luciano is a Science Writer at BioNews. Originally from the picturesque mountain town of L’Aquila, Italy, Michela holds a PhD in Molecular Biology from the University of Salzburg. Her research focused on the role of inflammation in acute myeloid leukemia. With a deep passion for scientific communication, Michela transitioned into her first role as Scientific Writer in 2022. Outside of work she enjoys street photography, mountain hikes, running, and spending as much time as possible outdoors.

Articles by Michela Luciano, PhD

FDA clears cell therapy XS-228 for ALS Phase 1 clinical trial

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has given Xellsmart Biopharmaceutical the go-ahead to start a Phase 1 clinical trial testing its stem cell-based therapy XS-228 in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This milestone, reflecting the approval of Xellsmart’s investigational new drug (IND) application, follows promising results…

First patient dosed in a Phase 1 study testing AMX0114 in ALS

The first patient has been dosed in a Phase 1 clinical study testing AMX0114, an experimental therapy being developed by Almylyx Pharmaceuticals for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The treatment targets calpain-2, a protein believed to contribute to nerve cell damage in ALS. Called LUMINA (NCT06665165), the study was cleared…

1st ALS patient enrolled in MN-166 expanded access program

The first patient has been enrolled in an expanded access program (EAP) trial evaluating MN-166 (ibudilast), Medicinova’s oral anti-inflammatory drug, in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). EAPs, also known as compassionate use programs, allow patients with serious or life-threatening conditions to access investigational therapies outside of clinical…

Denali halts extension of DNL343 arm in HEALEY ALS trial

Denali Therapeutics‘ oral candidate DNL343 has failed to reduce levels of an established biomarker of nerve cell damage in adults with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). That’s according to new data from the DNL343 arm of the HEALEY ALS platform trial (NCT04297683), where patients who received the experimental…

Woolsey secures additional funding to advance ALS therapy Bravyl

Woolsey Pharmaceuticals has extended its Series B preferred financing round, securing additional funds to continue advancing its ROCK inhibitor Bravyl (oral fasudil) for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The extension was completed with participation from existing investors. Series B financing is an early round of funding that usually takes…