Australian Mother Charged After Poisoning Baby for Donations

A research team from Australia's Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research in Melbourne has identified a small molecule that may help prevent cell death associated with neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. According to findings published in *Science Advances* on May 12, 2025, the molecule targets a protein known as BAX, which is responsible for cell damage and death. Professor Guillaume Lessene, a key researcher in the study, expressed excitement about the discovery, stating, "Turning off BAX alone may be sufficient to limit cell death in neurons." After screening more than 100,000 chemical compounds, the team found that the molecule can inhibit BAX's function, effectively preserving cell viability by preventing mitochondrial damage. This breakthrough addresses a critical gap in the treatment of neurodegenerative conditions, as developing drugs to block cell death has proven difficult. The research suggests potential pathways for creating next-generation therapies that could alter the course of diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, offering new hope for patients.

A 26-year-old man was charged with manslaughter concerning the death of a four-week-old baby nearly two years after the infant’s passing, as reported by police in Wagga Wagga, New South Wales. The accused, described as a family member, brought the critically ill child to Wagga Wagga Base Hospital in July 2023, presenting with multiple broken bones and other allegedly inflicted injuries. Tragically, the infant succumbed to his injuries three days later at Sydney Children’s Hospital. Detective Inspector Peter Owen noted that the incident has deeply affected the local community, emphasizing the tragic nature of infant deaths, particularly those involving suspected inflicted injuries. The suspect was granted bail on a $10,000 surety following his court appearance on Friday and is scheduled to return to Wagga Wagga Local Court in July. The investigation into the case involved assistance from the NSW Crime Commission, highlighting the significant effort by local detectives over the past two years. The baby is survived by two siblings, according to police statements.

Erin Patterson, a 50-year-old mother from Leongatha, Victoria, is on trial for allegedly murdering her estranged husband's parents and aunt by serving them poisonous mushrooms during a lunch she hosted under the guise of discussing her supposed cancer diagnosis. Prosecutors claim that Patterson fabricated the illness to bring her victims together, stating, “The accused said that it was important that the children were not present for the lunch,” according to prosecutor Nanette Rogers. In July 2023, Don and Gail Patterson, both 70, and Heather Wilkinson, 66, fell seriously ill after consuming a meal that included beef Wellington allegedly laced with death cap mushrooms. While Patterson’s guests succumbed to the poison, Reverend Ian Wilkinson survived but required weeks of hospitalization. The trial has drawn significant media attention, and evidence presented includes a food dehydrator traced to Patterson, found with traces of the toxic mushrooms. Patterson’s defense attorney, Colin Mandy, argued that the deaths were accidental and that Patterson did not intend to harm her guests. The trial is expected to continue for several weeks, with expert testimonies and additional evidence to be presented.