The Week of

The big news this week was the new Executive Order to fast-track the review of psychedelic therapies for mental health disorders. Indeed, this is a big deal, not a symbolic gesture. Simply put, this new executive order does three things: accelerates timelines for clinical trials and regulatory decisions, reduces stigma, which expands patient access and participation, and signals federal support, which unlocks capital and institutional interest. Here’s more: https://psychedelicalpha.com/news/president-trump-signs-executive-order-to-accelerate-psychedelic-research-and-access/

A new study found that specific patterns in the gut microbiome can identify people at risk of Parkinson’s years before symptoms appear, including those with a genetic predisposition. These microbial changes become more pronounced as the disease progresses and may be linked to mechanisms that damage neurons.

The findings suggest Parkinson’s may partly originate in the gut and raise the possibility of earlier detection and even prevention through diet or microbiome-based interventions.

However, researchers emphasize that the link is not yet fully understood, and it remains unclear whether these gut changes cause the disease or simply reflect it.  Check it out: https://jlsfund.substack.com/p/gut-microbiome-may-reveal-parkinsons

ClearPoint Neuro received a Medical Device License from Health Canada for its Neuro Navigation System, allowing its platform to be used in Canada for both MRI-guided and CT-guided neurosurgical procedures.

The approval builds on prior clearance of its drug delivery system and enables Canadian clinical trial and commercial sites to use the same standardized workflow already in place in the U.S., improving consistency across studies.

This effectively integrates Canada into the company’s global infrastructure, supporting its strategy to expand cell and gene therapy delivery and scale procedures internationally. Here’s more: https://jlsfund.substack.com/p/clearpoint-neuro-extends-its-reach

Did you know that it’s possible to combine electronics with lab-grown neurons?

Science Corporation, a startup founded by former Neuralink president Max Hodak, is preparing to place a biohybrid brain sensor in a human for the first time, using a tiny 520-electrode device that sits on the brain’s surface during routine surgery.

The long-term goal is to combine electronics with lab-grown neurons that can integrate with the brain, potentially creating a more natural interface between biology and machines. The science is absolutely fascinating! Check it out: https://thenextweb.com/news/science-corp-biohybrid-brain-sensor-first-human-hodak-yale.