The human microbiome is a rapidly maturing field and we’re excited to help push the science forward

SAN FRANCISCO (PRWEB)
October 28, 2020

One Codex, a leading microbial genomics company, today announced the launch of a new end-to-end microbiome sequencing and analysis solution. The new product includes sample preparation, shotgun metagenomic sequencing, and analysis on One Codex’s leading genomics platform. One Codex is dedicated to providing reliable, reproducible results with industry leading turnaround times.

“The microbiome holds great promise as both a source and target of new therapeutics,” said Nick Greenfield, founder and CEO of One Codex. “The human microbiome is a rapidly maturing field and we’re excited to help push the science forward – including applications ranging from the development of live biotherapeutics (LBPs) to understanding the role of the gut microbiome in the efficacy of small molecule, immunotherapy, and other therapeutics. With over 9000 researchers using our analysis platform, we regularly hear many frustrations with existing microbiome sequencing workflows and providers. Our goal with this new product is to address these pain points by offering reliable, reproducible results in as little as 2 weeks. Further, we’re excited to offer clear and competitive pricing with no hidden costs or minimums.”

One Codex has cultivated a team with deep expertise in microbial genomics through years of collaborations with leading researchers across academia, public health, biotech, and pharma. Combining this with a team of experts in automation, sample preparation, and sequencing enabled One Codex to develop and optimize a highly automated process that delivers consistent, accurate results.

One Codex’s mission is to leverage genomics data to further develop our understanding of and enable development of therapeutics and diagnostics for the microbiome. Its proprietary algorithms and world’s largest curated microbial database uniquely position One Codex to provide an accurate picture of complex metagenomic samples. The company has won awards and recognition from the CDC, FDA, and Janssen Pharmaceuticals. With a focus on giving structure to complex datasets in an intuitive web-based interface, One Codex has built a platform accessible to both bench scientists and computational biologists.

About One Codex

One Codex is a leading data platform for microbial genomics, supporting taxonomic and functional analysis of next-generation sequencing (NGS) data. Use cases include viral metagenomics, infectious disease diagnostics, microbiome profiling, and comparative genomics applications. Founded in 2014, the One Codex platform counts thousands of users across leading academic institutions, biotechnology companies, and public sector organizations. One Codex’s cloud-based solution is the only microbial genomics platform that provides HIPAA-level security, as well as other strong compliance and audit guarantees. To learn more, visit http://www.onecodex.com. One Codex products are designed for Research Use Only.

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Credit: Tennessee River Valley Stewardship Council

“The Tennessee and Cumberland River systems have the highest number of rare fish species in the country, with the Upper Elk alone having nine federally listed endangered aquatic species, including eight mussel species.”

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (PRWEB)
October 24, 2020

Annually, World Fish Migration Day raises awareness of migratory fish and threats to their migration on waterways worldwide. This 2020 event will be held on October 24th, with a theme of “Love Flows.” Organized by the World Fish Migration Foundation, this one-day global initiative calls attention to imperiled migratory fish species and the preservation and restoration of natural river networks.

“The Tennessee River’s aquatic diversity and fisheries are well known to biologists and anglers,” said Julie Graham, Executive Director TRV Stewardship Council. “This river and its tributaries have shaped recreation and economies in the Valley for generations.”

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) plays a vital role in balancing waterways to protect the aquatic basin’s health. Dating back to the 1930s, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt charged the TVA with overseeing devastating flooding in the Valley, managing boat navigation on the Tennessee River, and producing electricity for the region. The TVA built dams that impeded the natural flow of water and developed a method to control the water temperature to support native fish species below the reservoirs.

Recently, outdoor angler and writer Etta Pettijohn spoke with TVA Engineer, Jessica Brazille, to learn more about how the “hot/cold” system at Tims Ford Dam regulates the Elk River downstream. “The success of the program is critical to fish habitat and species,” said Etta. “The Tennessee and Cumberland River systems have the highest number of rare fish species in the country, with the Upper Elk alone having nine federally listed endangered aquatic species, including eight mussel species.”

When you visit rivers and waterways, take a moment to appreciate the ongoing stewardship activities that protect and conserve the aquatic life just below the surface.

The Tennessee River Valley Stewardship Council serves as the steering committee and editorial board for the Geotourism MapGuide website. It is comprised of volunteers from a seven-state region. The Council’s efforts are made possible through the generous support of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).

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The University is invested in the advancement of the life sciences and establishing the Biology Innovators Grant demonstrates our commitment in a BIG way.

NASHUA, N.H. (PRWEB)
October 21, 2020

Rivier University is strengthening its commitment to innovation in the sciences through the launch of the Biology Innovators Grant (BIG) for undergraduate students. Made possible through a generous $350,000 bequest from a Rivier alumna, incoming students pursuing biology and biotechnology degrees in fall 2021 will be awarded a $3,000 grant each year for four years for a total of $12,000 in financial support, in addition to a competitive financial aid package. Additional one-time grants are available to nursing students through this scholarship.

“Rivier is ushering in a new era of innovation in the sciences says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, Rivier’s President. “The University is invested in the advancement of the life sciences and establishing the Biology Innovators Grant demonstrates our commitment in a BIG way.”

This fall, the University opened the doors to its new Science and Innovation Center, a cornerstone of its Vision 2020 strategic plan. The 36,000-square-foot facility features state-of-the-art laboratories, equipment, learning spaces, and technology to foster experiential learning and expanded student and faculty research. The Science and Innovation Center will benefit all Rivier students, but especially those majoring in biology, biotechnology, nursing, and public health. An official Dedication and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony is planned for October 30.

“With Rivier’s new facilities and increased student financial support, the impact on learning in the life sciences is phenomenal,” shares Dr. Brian Ernsting, Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Students are training on the equipment and technology currently in use at cutting-edge scientific and biotech firms, and they are conducting research with faculty mentors in new, fully equipped laboratories. At graduation, our students will be well-positioned for the most desirable jobs and graduate programs.”

“We encourage students to go BIG and pursue their dream careers in the sciences,” says Paul Brower, Vice President for Enrollment Management. “The Biology Innovators Grant, new Science and Innovation Center, and the Rivier Early Acceptance Program incentives make a compelling case for students to apply to the University early this fall.”

The Rivier Early Acceptance Program (REAP) offers all students who apply to the University by November 15 same-day acceptance and up to $2,500 in additional early acceptance incentives. The University’s streamlined application process requires only an online application or the Common App, high school transcripts, and a campus interview and tour. Students are not required to submit an essay, recommendations, or SAT/ACT scores.

More information on the Biology Innovators Grant, early acceptance program, and academic programs in the sciences is available from the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at (603) 897-8507 or admissions@rivier.edu. Prospective undergraduate students can schedule their campus visit online at http://www.rivier.edu/REAP2021 or by contacting the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

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“A2LA is proud to accredit MEMP Service Corporation. They are a leader in development and innovation and a prime example of a laboratory that wishes to change the status quo for the better.” – Chris Gunning, General Manager, A2LA

FREDERICK, Md. (PRWEB)
October 21, 2020

A2LA recently granted ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation to MEMP Service Corporation (Molecular Environmental Monitoring Provider). MEMP Service Corp. sought accreditation to this standard as part of the development of their cutting-edge new mobile molecular environmental monitoring services. This mobile biosurveillance solution allows MEMP to deploy an on-site molecular testing laboratory to any location and provide test results in four hours or less for a wide variety of microbial pathogens and other molecular targets. A2LA is glad to have had the opportunity to provide accreditation services to this modern and widely applicable laboratory solution. Accreditation by A2LA affirms a laboratory’s competency and helps build public confidence; it is an important step in the development of this type of innovative laboratory solution.

Through a partnership with Applied Food Diagnostics, MEMP Service Corp. developed and validated the MEMP Listeria Assay and the MEMP Salmonella Assay. This collaboration resulted in features such as reagent shelf stability and a reduced footprint that made it possible for these assays to be performed in MEMP’s mobile laboratories. Earlier this year, both MEMP Listeria and Salmonella assays received certification from the AOAC Research Institute.

The MEMP Service Corp. scope demonstrates conformance with the “AOAC International Guidelines for Laboratories Performing Microbiological and Chemical Analyses of Food, Dietary Supplements, and Pharmaceuticals” and the A2LA R104 – General Requirements: Accreditation of Field Testing and Field Calibration Laboratories. In addition to the AOAC PTM approved MEMP Listeria Assay and MEMP Salmonella Assay, the scope includes these validated assays; Aspergillus, Coliforms, Cronobacter, E. coli O157:H7, Generic E. coli, EHEC (Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli.), STEC (Shiga-toxin producing Escherichia coli), Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes. MEMP Service Corp. is the first of its kind mobile molecular laboratory with this type of accreditation.

“A2LA is proud to accredit MEMP Service Corporation. They are a leader in development and innovation and a prime example of a laboratory that wishes to change the status quo for the better.” Said Chris Gunning, General Manager at A2LA. “The technology that they have developed will allow for faster detection and elimination of contaminants in the food production and related industries. This technology is being accepted by the reputable AOAC organization and we believe this further advances A2LA’s goal of a better world through accreditation.”

Achieving ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation by A2LA is the pinnacle in third-party laboratory accreditation, as it confirms that laboratories have management, quality, and technical systems in place to ensure accurate and reliable analyses, as well as proper administrative processes to ensure that all aspects related to the sample, the analysis, and the reporting are standardized, measured, and monitored.

About A2LA

A2LA is a non-profit, non-governmental, third-party accreditation body, offering accreditation services to testing and calibration laboratories, sampling organizations, inspection bodies, proficiency testing providers, reference material producers, biobanking facilities, and product certifiers. For more information about A2LA, please visit http://www.A2LA.org.

About MEMP Service Corporation

MEMP Service Corporation is headquartered in Pennsylvania with regional service centers throughout the United Sates. MEMP’s network of mobile laboratories is continuously expanding and increasing its routine coverage. The company is currently focusing solutions for the food and beverage industry, but its services and technology have the potential for additional communities including critical infrastructure sectors, wellness, and regulatory agencies. Learn more about MEMP Service Corp’s service options at http://www.mempservices.com.

About Applied Food Diagnostics, Inc.

Applied Food Diagnostics develops and manufactures sampling and testing products specifically for the food centric sectors. Applied Food Diagnostics offers a comprehensive portfolio of innovative, rapid detection test kits, microbiological products, laboratory and sample collection supplies for food science applications. Their portfolio includes several AOAC PTM Approved pathogen detection kits. Additional information can be found at http://www.appliedfooddiagnostics.com.

About AOAC INTERNATIONAL

The AOAC Research Institute (AOAC RI) is a division of AOAC INTERNATIONAL that promotes and conducts activities to help develop, improve, and validate proprietary testing methods. Association of Official Analytical Collaboration (AOAC) International, is based in Rockville, MD, and is an independent, third-party, nongovernment administrator of the AOAC Performance Tested Methods SM Program. AOAC RI serves diagnostic producers by establishing and maintaining method validation and performance criteria.

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It’s exciting to recall how the event has evolved and how the PepTalk community has progressed over the years

NEEDHAM, Mass. (PRWEB)
October 19, 2020

Cambridge Healthtech Institute (CHI) is proud to celebrate the 20th anniversary of its PepTalk: The Protein Science and Production Week, marking two decades of innovation, collaboration and global recognition as an annual gathering place for key players in the biotherapeutics industry.

Over the last 20 years, PepTalk has grown to be an international event, that connects people from around the world to share knowledge and accelerate biotherapeutics development.

“It’s exciting to recall how the event has evolved and how the PepTalk community has progressed over the years,” said Mary Ann Brown, Executive Director of Conferences at CHI. “I look forward to seeing so many familiar faces each year and making new connections. PepTalk brings some of the most creative, and brightest minds together, providing an environment for sharing and learning. While we continue to face unprecedented and uncertain times, it’s more important than ever for researchers to come together, to share experiences, explore the opportunities and overcome the challenges.“

In its twentieth year, PepTalk will be held January 19-20, 2021 as a 3-day fully integrated virtual event that will continue to serve as a content hub for the latest research and developments. Its digital platform provides 1:1 networking, live Q&A sessions, breakout groups, research posters, dedicated zoom rooms for Exhibitors and so much more.

To view the scheduled programs and confirmed speaker lineup, visit http://www.CHI-PepTalk.com.

Important Dates:

Early registration deadline: November 6, 2020

Poster abstract submission deadline: November 20, 2020

Advance registration deadline: December 11, 2020

To Register:

Call toll free: +1-888-999-6288

Visit: https://register.healthtech.com/reg/ptk

For sponsorship opportunities, contact:

(Companies A-K) Jason Gerardi, 781-972-5452, jgerardi@healthtech.com

(Companies L-Z) Ashley Parsons, 781-972-1340, ashleyparsons@healthtech.com

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Our featured speaker will go through the most common challenges, give their best hints & tips for what to look out for and what you can do to solve them.

TORONTO (PRWEB)
October 15, 2020

Expressing proteins modified with a His-tag is a very powerful and common way to efficiently purify your target molecule. The His-tag provides effective capture using Immobilized Metal-ion Affinity Chromatography (IMAC). But, as usual, not much is simple and there are challenges in the form of tagged proteins not binding and eluting as expected.

The binding can be affected by many things, such as:

• The expression system used (inclusion bodies, secretion, PTM, proteolytic cleavage)
• The length of the His-tag
• Differences in affinity for the particular metal ion bound to the chelator on the resin
• The chelator ligand itself
• Reducing agents and chelating components in the feed
• The buffer composition during binding and elution

So, even if the purification technique is simple in itself, it can be very hard to know what is wrong when no (or very little) of your target proteins are collected in your test tube. Where do you start in terms of troubleshooting? What are the signs to look for to understand what may need to be changed? How do you tackle the challenge of optimizing your His-tag protein purification method?

Our featured speaker will go through the most common challenges, give their best hints & tips for what to look out for and what you can do to solve them. She will go through some application examples and discuss methods of screening before a decision is made in regards to which set-up and purification method to move forward with.

Join Anna Heijbel, Sr Global Product Manager, Bio-Works in a live webinar on Wednesday, October 28, 2020 at 10am EDT (2pm GMT/UK).

For more information or to register for this event, visit Meeting the Challenge of Optimizing His-tag Protein Purification.

ABOUT XTALKS

Xtalks, powered by Honeycomb Worldwide Inc., is a leading provider of educational webinars to the global life science, food and medical device community. Every year thousands of industry practitioners (from life science, food and medical device companies, private & academic research institutions, healthcare centers, etc.) turn to Xtalks for access to quality content. Xtalks helps Life Science professionals stay current with industry developments, trends and regulations. Xtalks webinars also provide perspectives on key issues from top industry thought leaders and service providers.

To learn more about Xtalks visit http://xtalks.com

For information about hosting a webinar visit http://xtalks.com/why-host-a-webinar/

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Targeted metagenomics and next-generation sequencing can detect pathogens much more comprehensively than was possible just a few years ago.

SAN FRANCISCO (PRWEB)
October 15, 2020

As the world continues to battle COVID-19, health officials are preparing for the possibility of more co-infections with the onset of the Flu Season. Studies show a high frequency of co-infections in patients with SARS-CoV-2. In an effort to help labs better identify respiratory pathogens and avoid overuse of antimicrobial drugs, IDbyDNA and Illumina, Inc. (Nasdaq: ILMN) are co-launching the new Respiratory Pathogen ID/AMR Target Enrichment Panel for Research Use Only.

IDbyDNA’s strategic partnership with Illumina, Inc. aims to accelerate and improve testing for infectious diseases, including COVID-19. The team will leverage IDbyDNA’s Explify® Platform and Illumina’s next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology to deliver the most comprehensive detection of respiratory pathogens and the first one based on next-generation sequencing (NGS). In addition to targeting more than 280 pathogens, the panel can also detect genes associated with antimicrobial resistance markers, providing insight into how the misuse of antimicrobials can lead to antibiotic resistance.

“Patients with COVID-19, influenza, and other respiratory diseases often suffer from co-infections that may worsen symptoms and frequently can be treated if identified. Targeted metagenomics and next-generation sequencing can detect pathogens much more comprehensively than was possible just a few years ago,” said Dr. Robert Schlaberg, co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of IDbyDNA. “IDbyDNA and Illumina’s technologies allow laboratories to find not just the suspected pathogens but also any co-infecting viruses, bacteria, or fungi that may require special treatment. Sequencing pathogen genomes also allows genetic profiling of SARS-CoV-2, influenza viruses, and other pathogens to support surveillance and containment efforts.”

“Illumina’s partnership with IDbyDNA will allow labs to more accurately and comprehensively identify respiratory co-infections and profile antibiotic resistance all at the same time,” said Kathy Davy, Vice President of Clinical Marketing at Illumina. “With IDbyDNA’s simple and powerful bioinformatics software coupled with Illumina’s proven NGS-based solutions, we can better understand respiratory co-infections as we head into the fall flu season and we continue to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Leveraging Illumina’s MiniSeq™ Rapid Reagent Kit, the Respiratory Pathogen ID/AMR Target Enrichment Panel delivers rapid detection in less than 24 hours from sample-to-result. The panel, which encompasses more than 280 bacteria, fungi and viruses, including SARS-CoV-2 and more than 1,200 antibiotic resistance markers, is much broader than available PCR tests. Multi-pathogen detection and antimicrobial resistance can all be delivered in one test, eliminating the need for multiple platforms and technologies, making the cost of the test comparable to PCR.

The Explify Platform simultaneously profiles tens of thousands of microorganisms and pathogens in any sample to deliver actionable information to healthcare providers. The proprietary Explify database includes millions of curated DNA and RNA reference sequences and can identify more than 50,000 microorganisms and over 6,000 known common and rare pathogens, including antimicrobial resistance.

For more information about the kit, visit https://www.illumina.com/products/by-type/sequencing-kits/library-prep-kits/respiratory-pathogen-id-panel.html

About the Respiratory Pathogen ID/AMR Target Enrichment Panel

The Respiratory Pathogen ID/AMR Target Enrichment Panel includes respiratory pathogen ID/AMR panel, with detection for 1200+ AMR markers, 180+ bacteria, 50+ fungi, 40+ viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, and 10 internal controls. Also features DNA and RNA library prep and enrichment, IDT for Illumina DNA/RNA UD indexes, tagmentation, plus data interpretation reports (powered by the IDbyDNA Explify® Platform).

About Illumina

Illumina is improving human health by unlocking the power of the genome. Our focus on innovation has established us as the global leader in DNA sequencing and array-based technologies, serving customers in the research, clinical and applied markets. Our products are used for applications in the life sciences, oncology, reproductive health, agriculture and other emerging segments. To learn more, visit http://www.illumina.com and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.

About IDbyDNA

IDbyDNA is revolutionizing the use of clinical metagenomics to improve health by decoding the unknown. IDbyDNA’s product suite delivers unparalleled data analytics and industry-leading expertise to support medical laboratories with actionable infectious disease testing and pathogen surveillance. By profiling tens of thousands of microorganisms from any specimen with a scalable and intuitive approach, IDbyDNA empowers healthcare providers with greater depth and transparency for better identification of pathogens in order to accelerate triage and treatment and improve public health. For more information, visit http://www.idbydna.com or reach out to us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Vimeo or YouTube.

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