Featuring: Simkho Shimonov, PharmD Candidate c/o 2025 By: Rebecca Sabzanov, PharmD Candidate c/o 2026 Simkho Shimonov, a dedicated and diligent PharmD candidate at St. John’s University, is set to graduate in 2025. With an extensive background in both retail and hospital pharmacy, he has amassed a broad understanding of the field. Recently, Simkho further diversified…

Michelle Flores, Pharm D Candidate c/o 2027 According to clinical trial results from researchers at UCL, UCLH, and the Francis Crick Institute in the UK, dornase alfa, a drug commonly used to treat cystic fibrosis, improved outcomes for patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia and may be used to treat other respiratory infections. A randomized unblinded…

By: Nivaj Haque; PharmD Candidate c/o 2027 In recent years, advancements in oncology have transformed the treatment landscape for various cancers, including those overexpressing human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Approximately 15-20% of breast cancers and a significant proportion of gastric and lung cancers are HER2-positive, making this a critical target for innovative therapies.1…

By: Reyaz Mussaleen PharmD Candidate c/o 2027 IntroductionThe Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the United States published a draft guidance in April 2024 titled “Safety Testing of Human Allogeneic Cells Expanded for Use in Cell-Based Medical Products.”1 This document, which aims to improve the regulatory framework for cell-based therapies, demonstrates the FDA’s determination to…

By: Sariah Grant, PharmD Candidate c/o 2027            In June 2021, the Food and Drug Administration approved Novo Nordisk’s semaglutide, marketed under the brand name Wegovy. It was approved for adults facing obesity and other weight-related conditions.1 Initially developed for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), semaglutide’s use has expanded significantly due to…

By: Rosa Kang PharmD Candidate c/o 2027 Summer is a time of endless possibilities. During this time, St. John’s University offers a program for its students who are interested in pursuing research: The Summer Research Program! Here are just a few of the many experiences from the professors and students who are participating in this…