Core Viewpoint - The study reveals the complex interactions between neurons and glioblastoma cells, highlighting long-range cholinergic input as a significant factor in glioblastoma progression, providing new insights for cancer neuroscience research [4][8]. Group 1: Research Findings - The research team created a comprehensive brain connectivity map of glioblastoma (GBM) cells, demonstrating the influence of long-range cholinergic neurons on GBM progression [4][9]. - Local inputs are primarily glutamatergic, while long-distance connections exhibit diverse neurotransmitter characteristics, with cholinergic projections from the basal forebrain being a conserved input across different regions [7][9]. - The study identifies that acetylcholine release through muscarinic receptor CHRM3 promotes GBM growth in a circuit-specific manner, and blocking both acetylcholine and glutamate pathways results in an additive anti-tumor effect [10] [9]. Group 2: Implications for Treatment - Anticholinergic drug scopolamine inhibits GBM growth, while acetylcholinesterase inhibitor donepezil exacerbates the condition, indicating the potential for targeted therapies based on neurotransmitter signaling [4][7]. - The findings suggest that long-range neural regulatory pathways could serve as promising therapeutic targets for glioblastoma treatment [8].

Core Viewpoint - The production of GV-971 (Mannoheptulose Sodium Capsules), a drug for Alzheimer's disease, has been halted by Green Valley Pharmaceutical, leading to supply shortages and rising prices, raising concerns among patients and families [2][11]. Group 1: Company Situation - Green Valley Pharmaceutical confirmed the closure of offices and production areas related to GV-971 on June 8, 2023, amid severe operational pressures and cash flow issues [2][4]. - The company previously announced on May 19, 2023, that it was aware of the difficulties patients faced in obtaining the drug and was working with authorities to resolve supply issues, but this announcement was deleted shortly after [2][4]. - The drug has faced ongoing academic controversy since its launch in 2019, with questions regarding its mechanism of action and clinical efficacy [4][10]. Group 2: Market Impact - Patients across multiple cities, including Guangzhou, Beijing, and Shanghai, reported difficulties in obtaining GV-971, with prices increasing significantly from around 296 yuan per box (the price when included in medical insurance) to between 500 and 600 yuan, and in some cases, even reaching 5000 yuan [7][11]. - Online platforms have seen a drastic reduction in available stock, with only a few pharmacies listing the drug for sale, often with purchase limits [7][8]. Group 3: Drug Efficacy and Alternatives - The mechanism of GV-971 involves modulating beneficial gut bacteria and related metabolites, which may alleviate neuroinflammation and reduce Alzheimer's-related protein production [9]. - There are currently no other drugs with a similar mechanism approved, but alternative symptomatic treatments are available, including cognitive training and emotional regulation [9][14]. - The drug's conditional approval in 2019 required further clinical trials, which have faced delays, including the suspension of international Phase III trials in 2022 due to various factors [11][12].

Core Viewpoint - The drug Gantoret Sodium Capsule (brand name: Jiuyi) for Alzheimer's disease has become scarce, leading to widespread concern about the difficulties patients face in obtaining medication [2][4][5] Group 1: Supply Issues - Since 2025, Gantoret Sodium Capsule has faced prescription difficulties in hospitals and supply shortages on online platforms [4][5] - The manufacturer, Green Valley Pharmaceutical Technology, acknowledged the supply issues and is in communication with relevant authorities to address the situation [2][4] - Reports indicate that the drug's market price has increased by approximately 40% in recent months, with some pharmacies listing prices as high as 5000 yuan per box [5][6] Group 2: Market Dynamics - The drug was first approved for conditional listing in November 2019 and officially launched in December 2019, allowing patients to purchase it with a doctor's prescription [4][6] - The initial price of the drug was set at 895 yuan per box, but it was later included in the national medical insurance directory, reducing the price to 296 yuan per box [6][7] - The current monthly cost for patients using Gantoret Sodium is approximately 1184 yuan, significantly lower than the combined cost of traditional treatments [6][7] Group 3: Disease Context - Alzheimer's disease is a major neurodegenerative condition affecting over 55 million people globally, with China having the highest number of patients [8] - The treatment options for Alzheimer's disease are limited, with Gantoret Sodium being one of the few drugs that can improve cognitive function without worsening the condition [8][9] - The drug was conditionally approved due to the urgent need for treatment options, despite some initial concerns regarding long-term safety data [9]