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deCODE genetics: The rate, nature and transmission of mitochondrial DNA mutations in humans

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7 months ago

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A new study from deCODE genetics uses pedigrees and sequence data from 64,806 Icelanders to shed light on the rate and nature of mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and the peculiar dynamics of its maternal transmission

REYKJAVIK, Iceland, June 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — In a paper published today in Cell, scientists from deCODE genetics, a subsidiary of Amgen, present the largest study to date of germline mtDNA mutations in humans and their transmission across 116,663 mother-child pairs. The study documents the astonishing extent of hypermutability at some positions in mtDNA, including the well-known deleterious A>G mutation at position 3243 which causes the MELAS syndrome. The mutation occurred 15 times in the 2,548 matrilineal pedigrees, but typically disappeared after several generations, due to its severe impact on the health of carriers.

Strong aggregate evidence was uncovered for selection against many such short-lived deleterious mtDNA mutations in the pedigrees. The deCODE team also reported evidence for an extensive earlier episode of negative selection affecting mitochondria, called germline selection, where poorly functioning mitochondrial DNA molecules are discarded during the development of oocytes. Finally, they used the large number of transmissisons of mtDNA mutations in the pedigrees to reliably estimate that individuals inherit, on average, only around 3 units of mtDNA from their mothers – fewer than indicated by previous studies.

“It is remarkable that the hundreds of thousands of mtDNA carried by oocytes are derived from only about three of the mtDNA molecules originally carried by the mother,” noted Agnar Helgason, a corresponding author of the paper. “This drastic bottleneck determines the rapid rate at which new mutations in the mtDNA germline can become lost or fixed over just a handful of generations in a pedigree, and must be in part due to a selection process during the development of oocytes, where mtDNA molecules with deleterious mutations are removed from the germline.”

“This study takes us a few steps closer to understanding the basis of the extraordinary variation in mutation rates across the nucelotides of the mtDNA genome, even between different alleles at the same position”, said Kári Stefánsson, CEO of deCODE and a corresponding author of the paper. “Unfortunately, it is the hypermutability of some pathogenic mutations that has made them so prevalent and thereby easier to discover. However, our findings suggest that many rarer pathogenic mtDNA mutations that are responsible for disease burden in human populations remain to be discovered.”

Video: https://vimeo.com/953941695/4467620687?share=copy

Contact:
Thora Kristin Asgeirsdottir
deCODE genetics
354 894 1909
Email: thoraa@decode.is

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/decode-genetics-the-rate-nature-and-transmission-of-mitochondrial-dna-mutations-in-humans-302166482.html

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Immorta Bio to Present New Data on SenoVax™ and StemCell Revivify™ at Biotech Showcase 2025

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23 minutes ago

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January 10, 2025

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Senolytic Immunotherapy and Cellular Rejuvenation platforms are progressing toward clinical development

MIAMI, Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Immorta Bio Inc., a leader in longevity-focused biotechnologies, announced today that it will present its latest developments at the upcoming Biotech Showcase in San Francisco, CA. The company’s presentation will provide insights into its groundbreaking research and technological advancements aimed at Treating Diseases of Aging and Treating Aging as Disease™.

Details of the presentation are as follows:

Event: Biotech Showcase 2025
Date: January 14, 2025
Time: 4 PM Pacific
Location: Franciscan C, Ballroom Level

Immorta Bio’s innovative platform SenoVax™, a dendritic cell-based vaccine designed to target and eliminate senescent cells. Preclinical studies have demonstrated its potential to transform the tumor microenvironment by clearing these cells, which are associated with aging and disease progression. Furthermore, in animal models of multiple solid tumor cancers (lung, breast, glioma, pancreatic), SenoVax™ induced significant tumor regression by enhancing immune responses, underscoring its promise as a therapeutic solution for both cancer treatment and longevity research.

The company’s StemCell Revivify™, a set of personalized young and immortal progenitor and mesenchymal stem cells have shown an ability to achieve dramatic recovery of failing organs in multiple animal models. Proprietary iPSC-based stem cell therapies have been developed to provide scalable, practical, and economical solutions.

“We are thrilled to showcase our recent progress and share our vision for tackling the diseases of aging as well as the aging itself,” said Dr. Thomas Ichim, President and Chief Scientific Officer of Immorta Bio. “At Immorta Bio, we believe that combining cutting-edge science with a deep understanding of the biology of aging can transform how we address major medical challenges. The Biotech Showcase offers an invaluable platform to engage with innovators, collaborators, and investors while we highlight how our breakthroughs in longevity science are paving the way for healthier, longer lives.”

To learn more about the event, please visit https://informaconnect.com/biotech-showcase/. To schedule a one-on-one with Dr. Thomas Ichim, President and Chief Scientific Officer of Immorta Bio, during the event, please email kbash@immortabio.com

About Immorta Bio
Immorta Bio Inc. is a scientific longevity company developing personalized cellular therapeutics focused on Treating Diseases of Aging and Treating Aging as a Disease™. We are advancing longevity medicine by harnessing patient-derived rejuvenated stem cells and enhanced immune cells, restoring the body’s natural ability to combat cancers and age-related diseases. Our mission is to address the root causes of aging and bring resilience and vitality back to you.

To learn more about Immorta Bio’s research initiatives, visit immortabio.com, LinkedIn and X.

Media Contact

David Schull  
Russo Partners
858-717-2310
388575@email4pr.com

Kate Bash
Chief Commercial Officer
Immorta Bio
388575@email4pr.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/immorta-bio-to-present-new-data-on-senovax-and-stemcell-revivify-at-biotech-showcase-2025-302347953.html

SOURCE Immorta Bio Inc.

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Breaking Stereotypes: New 3Fun Survey Reveals Media’s Missteps in Polyamory Representation

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23 minutes ago

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January 10, 2025

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NEW YORK, Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Despite growing visibility, only 11% of polyamorous individuals feel media portrayals align with their real-life experiences, according to a new survey by 3Fun, the leading dating app for open-minded singles and partners seeking like-minded connections. The survey, conducted among 1,312 3Fun users, highlights how media misrepresentation shapes public perceptions, reinforces stereotypes, and impacts user expectations on dating platforms like 3Fun.

Key Findings from the 3Fun Survey:

Limited Representation: Nearly 40% of respondents said they rarely see polyamorous relationships in mainstream media, while 17% reported never seeing them at all.Social Media Influence: Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are driving perceptions of polyamory for 40% of users, far surpassing traditional media like TV and film (10%).Accuracy Issues: Only 11% of respondents described media portrayals as “very accurate,” while 52% rated them as “rarely accurate” or “completely inaccurate.”Mixed Progress: While 39% believe portrayals have improved, 38% said they’ve noticed no change at all.Normalization vs. Stereotypes: Social media is a double-edged sword—40% think it normalizes polyamory, but 34% believe it reinforces harmful stereotypes.Global vs. Local Media: Over 21% noted global media tends to be more open-minded about polyamory than local outlets, which are often conservative or avoid the topic altogether.

“The data from this survey shows how far we still have to go in achieving authentic representation of polyamory in media and pop culture,” said Max Ma, Founder and CEO of 3Fun. “These portrayals don’t just shape public opinion—they directly influence how our users feel about their relationships and their ability to live openly. At 3Fun, we’re dedicated to creating a supportive community where everyone can explore their desires without fear of judgment.”

The Real Impact of Misrepresentation

Nearly half of respondents (47%) identified cultural and societal norms as the biggest barriers to societal acceptance of polyamory—more significant than concerns about media portrayal or visibility. However, respondents emphasized that better representation would lead to:

Easier conversations about polyamory (32%)Improved understanding within their social circles (21%)

Gigi Engle, certified sex and relationship psychotherapist and 3Fun’s resident intimacy expert, echoed this sentiment: “Representation matters. Media has the power to normalize relationships and dismantle stereotypes, but only when done thoughtfully. This survey shows a clear need for creators to approach polyamory with authenticity and care.”

Creating a World Where Love Knows No Limits

The findings highlight the role platforms like 3Fun play in bridging the gap between perception and reality. With over 10 million downloads and 3 million verified active users worldwide, 3Fun provides a safe, inclusive space for polyamorous individuals and couples to connect, explore, and thrive.

Join us in building a community where love is celebrated in all its forms. Download 3Fun today and discover a world where love knows no limits.

For more information, visit www.go3fun.co.

About 3Fun:

3Fun, with over 10 million downloads and 3 million verified active users worldwide, is the leading dating app for open-minded singles and partners to meet like-minded people. The platform provides a safe and inclusive space for users to explore ethical open relationships and polyamory lifestyles, fostering community and connection without judgment. Learn more at www.go3fun.co.

Media Contact:
Britni Ackrivo
backrivo@gregoryfca.com
484-504-9920

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/breaking-stereotypes-new-3fun-survey-reveals-medias-missteps-in-polyamory-representation-302347759.html

SOURCE 3Fun

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Powerfleet to Present at the 27th Annual Needham Growth Conference

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23 minutes ago

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January 10, 2025

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WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J., Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Powerfleet, Inc. (Nasdaq: AIOT) today announced that management is scheduled to present at the 27th Annual Needham Growth Conference on Tuesday, January 14th at 4:30pmET and meet with investors to discuss how Powerfleet is enacting meaningful business change through effective data insights for its customers and underpinning their digital transformations.  

The link to the live webcast of the Company’s presentation will be available by visiting Powerfleets website at https://ir.powerfleet.com/events-presentations/events.

ABOUT POWERFLEET
Powerfleet (Nasdaq: AIOT; JSE: PWR) is a global leader in the artificial intelligence of things (AIoT) software-as-a-service (SaaS) mobile asset industry. With more than 30 years of experience, Powerfleet unifies business operations through the ingestion, harmonization, and integration of data, irrespective of source, and delivers actionable insights to help companies save lives, time, and money. Powerfleet’s ethos transcends our data ecosystem and commitment to innovation; our people-centric approach empowers our customers to realize impactful and sustained business improvement. The company is headquartered in New Jersey, United States, with offices around the globe. Explore more at www.powerfleet.com. Powerfleet has a primary listing on The Nasdaq Global Market and a secondary listing on the Main Board of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE).

Powerfleet Investor Contacts
Carolyn Capaccio and Jody Burfening
Alliance Advisors IR
AIOTIRTeam@allianceadvisors.com

Powerfleet Media Contact
Jonathan Bates
jonathan.bates@powerfleet.com
+44 7921 242 892

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/powerfleet-to-present-at-the-27th-annual-needham-growth-conference-302347520.html

SOURCE Powerfleet

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