The Week of

Researchers published a new study showing that lab-grown “mini-brains” (called brain organoids) can reveal important differences in how neurological conditions affect brain activity.

Using a platform developed by Itay & Beyond, scientists created these mini-brains from patient cells and placed them on a “brain-on-a-chip” system that measures electrical activity, similar to how brain waves are tracked.

The study found that these organoids showed distinct patterns of brain activity depending on the specific subtype of autism, highlighting that the disorder is not one single condition but a collection of biologically different subtypes. Here’s more: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41398-026-03890-1

Scientists at Heidelberg University identified a potential “death switch” in the brain linked to Alzheimer’s disease, triggered when two specific proteins bind together and cause brain cells to die. This cell loss is what drives memory decline and cognitive impairment.

The team also found a way to block this process by using a compound that separates the proteins, preventing the switch from activating. As a result, brain cells were preserved, memory function improved, and harmful buildup in the brain was reduced. Absolutely fascinating research! Here’s more: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260323005526.htm

Japanese pharma company Shionogi announced that it was taking full control of its sleep disorder joint venture with Apnimed, agreeing to pay $100 million upfront (plus a potential $50 million milestone) to acquire its partner’s 50% stake. 

The joint venture, launched in 2023, focuses on developing drug treatments for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), with candidates such as SASS-001 and SASS-002 currently in mid-stage clinical trials, with data expected in 2026.

With the acquisition in place, Apnimed will now monetize its stake to focus on its more advanced lead program for sleep apnea, AD109, which is moving toward potential FDA submission. Check it out: https://www.shionogi.com/global/en/news/2026/03/20260324.html.

Did you know that the brain-computer interface company Neuralink is now capable of restoring speech by translating brain activity into audible words?

Nerualink co-founder Elon Musk shared this update on X, writing, “Nerualink is restoring speech to those who have lost the ability to speak.” Nerualink also shared a post on X along with a video demonstrating the update. You can watch it here: https://x.com/neuralink/status/2036489073091580011?s=20.