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Kanazawa University research: Sensing a biomarker

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KANAZAWA, Japan, June 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Researchers at Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University report in Biosensors and Bioelectronics: X a novel approach for detecting a particular biomolecule associated with several diseases. The results show good sensitivity and selectivity, and may lead to the development of a low-cost, rapid detection device useful in cancer prognosis.

Human diseases are often the result of DNA transcriptions gone wrong. Transcription refers to the copying of parts of a DNA molecule — the ‘genetic code’ — into an RNA molecule, which in turn is required for converting the encoded information into proteins. The latter play crucial roles in various biochemical processes taking place in the human body. One transcriptional modification mechanism is adenosine-to-inosine editing, in which adenosine (one of four RNA building blocks) is chemically modified, resulting in an altered RNA molecule. This type of modification is facilitated by catalyst proteins called ADARs (adenosine deaminases acting on RNA). Three such ADARs have been identified in humans. One of them, ADAR1, has been found to be more abundant in the presence of several kinds of chronic diseases, including neurological disorders and cancer. ADAR1 is therefore considered a biomarker — a ‘signature molecule’ — for assessing a patient’s condition and chances of survival. Madhu Biyani from Kanazawa University and colleagues have now developed a new, electrochemical biosensor for detecting ADAR1, offering a low-cost, rapid tool for measuring ADAR1 concentrations in cells. The detector is expected to be useful for monitoring cancer progression.

The procedure presented by Biyani and colleagues is new in two ways. The first is that it uses newly identified aptamers as molecules that can recognize and capture ADAR1. Aptamers are molecules consisting of sequences of (synthetic) DNA, RNA or other biomolecules that bind to a particular target molecule, in this case ADAR1. The second novelty lies in the use of a field-deployable electrochemical sensor DEPSOR (BioSeeds Corp.), which has the advantages of, apart from being fast and non-expensive, requiring only small samples.

In order to find the optimal aptamer — that is, the one that chemically binds easiest to ADAR1 — the researchers screened a large set of DNA sequences and narrowed it down to 15 candidate aptamers. Each of these candidates was then tested in an electrochemical sensing platform: the amount of ADAR1 is ‘sensed’ through chemical reactions that result in an electrical current. The latter can be easily detected. The more ADAR1 in a sample, the higher the measured current.

The candidate aptamer resulting in the highest electrochemical current, called Apt38483, was then checked further. Its electrochemical response to ‘false’ proteins was very low, confirming it to be the optimal aptamer in terms of both sensitivity and selectivity. The scientists then tested an Apt38483-based prototype device on diluted cell samples. They found that even in a 625-fold diluted sample, ADAR1 could still be detected, highlighting the high sensitivity of the device.

The electrochemical biosensor developed by Biyani and colleagues for the detection of ADAR1 in cell samples is a promising platform for monitoring cancer progression in clinical samples. Quoting the scientists: “In the future, it will be promising to evaluate the system for the identification of low to high levels of ADAR1 expression in a cancer cell line sample for clinical prognosis.”

Figure

https://nanolsi.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/wp/wp-content/uploads/Figure1-6.png

Caption

A novel electrochemical biosensor for the detection of ADAR1 in cells is expected to be useful in cancer prognosis. © 2024 Biyani, et al. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Background

Electrochemical biosensors

Electrochemical biosensors are devices that convert biological information, such as the presence of a particular molecule (called the analyte), into a measurable signal. Essentially, biosensors consist of a bioreceptor, an interface and a transducer element. The bioreceptor binds to the analyte at the interface, which results in a signal that is picked up and converted by the transducer into an electric signal. The electric signal is processed through a computer; for example, the signal can be converted into an analyte concentration reading. Electrochemical biosensors are normally robust, low-cost and easy to miniaturize.

Madhu Biyani from Kanazawa University and colleagues have now developed an electrochemical biosensor for the detection of ADAR1, an RNA-editing enzyme associated with cancer progression. They identified a particular biomolecule as the optimal bioreceptor, showing good sensitivity and selectivity for ADAR1. The developed device is expected to be useful for monitoring cancer progression.

Reference

Madhu Biyani, Kirti Sharma, Maeda Shoei, Hinako Akashi, Masataka Nakano, Miki Nakajima, and Manish Biyani. A novel aptamer-antibody sandwich electrochemical sensor for detecting ADAR1 in complex biological samples, Biosensors and Bioelectronics: 19, 100491 (2024).

DOI: 10.1016/j.biosx.2024.100491

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biosx.2024.100491

Contact
Hiroe Yoneda
Senior Specialist in Project Planning and Outreach
NanoLSI Administration Office, Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI)
Kanazawa University
Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan
Email: nanolsi-office@adm.kanazawa-u.ac.jp
Tel: +81 (76) 234-4555

About Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University

Understanding nanoscale mechanisms of life phenomena by exploring “uncharted nano-realms”.

Cells are the basic units of almost all life forms. We are developing nanoprobe technologies that allow direct imaging, analysis, and manipulation of the behavior and dynamics of important macromolecules in living organisms, such as proteins and nucleic acids, at the surface and interior of cells. We aim at acquiring a fundamental understanding of the various life phenomena at the nanoscale.

https://nanolsi.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/en/

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DomaCom Appoints Giuseppe Porcelli as Chairman and Secures $2 Million Private Placement

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January 10, 2025

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SYDNEY, Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — DomaCom Limited (ASX:DCL) is pleased to announce two significant developments that will strengthen its leadership and financial position as it advances its fund-first, technology-driven strategy.

Appointment of Giuseppe Porcelli as Non-Executive Chairman

DomaCom has appointed Giuseppe Porcelli as Non-Executive Chairman. Giuseppe is the Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Lakeba Group, a global technology leader renowned for AI-powered, scalable solutions. With extensive expertise in technology-driven investment strategies, his leadership will be instrumental in accelerating DomaCom’s growth, innovation, and investor value creation.

“Giuseppe’s appointment strengthens our leadership team at a pivotal time for DomaCom,” said Darren Younger, CEO of DomaCom. “His experience in driving technological innovation and scaling businesses will support our strategy to enhance investor value and expand our market presence.”

Successful Completion of $2 Million Private Placement

DomaCom has successfully secured a $2 million investment through a private placement from sophisticated investor Martin Groen. The placement involved issuing 142,857,143 fully paid ordinary shares at $0.014 per share, reflecting investor confidence in DomaCom’s strategy and growth potential.

“This investment demonstrates strong confidence in our vision to transform DomaCom into a leading fund-first, technology-driven business,” said Giuseppe Porcelli, Chairman of DomaCom. “The additional option to secure further funding underscores the long-term alignment between DomaCom and our investors. This capital will allow us to accelerate key initiatives, deliver value to our stakeholders, and position the business for sustained growth.”

These developments mark an important step forward in DomaCom’s transformation, reinforcing its commitment to technological innovation, financial growth, and enhanced investor value.

Contact person: Darren Younger, DomaCom CEO
Darren.younger@domacom.com.au 

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SOURCE DomaCom Limited

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GlocalMe Unveils New Brand Identity and Cutting-Edge Innovations at CES 2025

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38 minutes ago

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January 10, 2025

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LAS VEGAS, Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — GlocalMe, a global leader in mobile data connectivity under uCloudlink (NASDAQ: UCL), is proud to announce its participation in CES 2025, the world’s largest technology trade show. This year marks a significant milestone for GlocalMe as it unveils its newly refreshed brand identity and showcases an impressive lineup of innovative products that are set to redefine global connectivity.

With the theme “The Ideal Network of Life,” GlocalMe’s rebranding reflects its dedication to providing seamless, secure, and reliable internet connectivity that feels local, no matter where users are. Powered by its patented Cloud SIM and HyperConn™ technology, the brand emphasizes “Global Connectivity, Local Mindedness,” delivering a borderless yet personalized connection experience for modern digital lifestyles.

“Our new brand identity represents a transformative step in our journey to empower users with effortless and reliable global connectivity,” said Chaohui Chen, CEO of uCloudlink. “At CES 2025, we are thrilled to showcase how our innovative solutions bring the world closer together, delivering technology that feels personal and local, even in a globalized world.”

Spotlight on the GlocalMe Life Series

A major highlight of GlocalMe’s CES 2025 showcase is the GlocalMe Life Series, a collection of advanced products designed to provide secure and convenient connectivity for daily and travel use. With a focus on user convenience and peace of mind, the Life Series empowers users to stay connected effortlessly.

At CES 2025, GlocalMe will pre-launch three new additions to the Life Series:

GPet: The second generation of GlocalMe’s smart global pet tracker, featuring unique 6-tech positioning technologies to ensure the safety and location tracking of pets worldwide. New features, including ‘AI Wellness’ and ‘Pet Interaction,’ will enhance pet health monitoring and strengthen the bond between pets and their owners.UniCord S and UniCord P: Upgraded versions of the UniCord, designed specifically for drivers and remote workers. These devices offer advanced tracking features and provide secure and seamless connectivity during commutes or road trips. The UniCord P boasts upgraded mobile internet specifications, delivering a network experience comparable to a Wi-Fi hotspot.

These new products join the existing Life Series, which includes:

UniCord: The world’s first 3-in-1 multi-functional USB cable, which has been honored with the “CES Breakthrough Award 2025” by Android Authority for its innovative design and functionality.RoamPlug: The world’s only travel adapter with a built-in 4G mobile hotspot.KeyTracker: A global intelligent tracker featuring 6-tech positioning to secure and locate personal belongings with precision.

Introducing HyperConn™ Technology: Seamless Connectivity Redefined

GlocalMe will also debut its revolutionary HyperConn™ mobile Wi-Fi hotspot technology at CES 2025, redefining how users stay connected on the move. Leading this innovation is the MeowGo G40 Pro, a HyperConn™-enabled 4G multi-network mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. Designed for road trip families and remote workers, this device leverages AI-powered network switching to provide uninterrupted internet access by seamlessly connecting to multiple 4G carriers and Wi-Fi providers. This ensures reliable connectivity anywhere in the world, no matter where life takes users.

Experience GlocalMe at CES 2025

From January 7 to 10, 2025, GlocalMe will showcase its new brand identity and innovative product lineup at booth LVCC North Hall #8211. Attendees are invited to experience firsthand how GlocalMe is redefining global connectivity through its cutting-edge products and advanced technologies.

All pre-launched products from CES will be officially available by the end of the first quarter of 2025.

About GlocalMe

GlocalMe is a digital lifestyle brand under Nasdaq-listed technology company uCloudlink (NASDAQ: UCL). With its mission to enable people to ‘Connect and Share without Limitations’, uCloudlink is a leading mobile technology solutions provider that provides a marketplace for mobile data traffic sharing to billions of users in over 200 countries and regions. By using uCloudlink’s patented Cloud SIM technology, mobile users are no longer confined to the service of a single network operator but are opened to a world of connectivity whenever and wherever they are.

For more information, visit www.glocalme.com.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2595181/GlocalMe.jpg 

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Reap Receives In-Principle Approval for Major Payment Institution License from Monetary Authority of Singapore

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2 hours ago

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January 10, 2025

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SINGAPORE, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Reap, a leading payment technology provider, is thrilled to announce today that it has received an In-Principle Approval (IPA) from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) for its application of the Major Payment Institution (MPI) License for its Singapore entity, Reap Singapore.

Obtaining the IPA marks a significant milestone for Reap. Reap is committed to regulatory excellence while continuously enhancing its capabilities and presence in Singapore and the broader Asia Pacific region. While the IPA marks a critical step forward, Reap Singapore remains steadfast in meeting the required conditions for the MPI License. Reap is equally committed to dedicating the necessary resources to support and assist Reap Singapore in achieving this goal. Together, Reap and Reap Singapore will continue to refine its compliance standards and beyond, ensuring it delivers enhanced value and trusted solutions to Singapore and the broader APAC customers.

“At Reap, compliance has always been paramount, not only to safeguard our users but also as a fundamental pillar for growth. Receiving this IPA from the MAS, a globally renowned financial regulator, is incredibly motivating and will be a key driver of secure growth in the region. It fuels our enthusiasm to continue collaborating closely with regulatory bodies to shape a secure and efficient money movement across the region. Reap is also committed to building a strong payment service.” stated Kevin Kang, Co-Founder of Reap.

Singapore is integral to Reap’s mission of enhancing global money movement. Its high regulatory standards and commitment to foster sustainable innovation align seamlessly with Reap’s vision for the future of payment services. This alignment empowers Reap to drive secure and efficient financial flows while delivering exceptional value to its clients and partners.

About Reap

Reap group is a leading global payment technology provider that enables financial connectivity and access for businesses worldwide. By bridging disparate economies, merging technological divides, and connecting key financial players, we are transforming the financial landscape into a more interconnected and interoperable space for efficient money movement.

With corporate cards, payout solutions, and expense management tools, we streamline financial operations and empower businesses to scale. Our APIs enable businesses to embed finance into their own products and services, from issuing Visa cards to facilitating cross-border payments.

Founded in 2018 in Hong Kong, Reap has since expanded to a team of over 100 across the globe, including Singapore. Reap is supported by a strong network of investors, including Acorn Pacific Ventures, Arcadia Funds, HashKey Capital, Hustle Fund, Fresco Capital, Abacus Ventures, and Payment Asia.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Christine Cheuk
Marketing & PR Manager, Reap
christine@reap.global

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SOURCE Reap

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