Alpha Cognition's Oral Therapy ZUNVEYL Granted
FDA Approval for Alzheimer's Disease
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Alpha Cognition Inc., a biopharmaceutical company developing novel therapeutics for debilitating neurodegenerative disorders, announces that the U.S. FDA has granted approval for ZUNVEYL® (benzgalantamine) previously known as ALPHA-1062, for the treatment of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease. A novel oral therapy, ZUNVEYL has a dual mechanism of action designed to eliminate drug absorption in the GI tract, potentially addressing certain tolerability issues with leading AD medications, combined with the efficacy and long-term benefit profile of galantamine.
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Texas Research Quarter Welcomes Ecosystem for
Fireside Panel & Reception Ahead of Campus Launch
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The BioNTX Facilities Advisory Committee joined with NexPoint and the Texas Research Quarter to welcome industry and regional innovators for a dynamic panel discussion on the pivotal role that North Texas plays in the future of healthcare and biotechnology innovation. Leaders highlighted the rapidly growing capabilities and incredible advancements happening locally, and addressed the challenges the region faces as it becomes increasingly competitive with other U.S. Biotech Hubs.
BioNTX is wholly committed to fostering collaboration and driving forward the groundbreaking research happening in our region to improve the State’s economic development and patient outcomes. Together, we continue to push the boundaries and work together towards a healthier tomorrow!
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Trailblazers of the South: Fort Worth Named Business Hub
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As the 12th-largest and fastest-growing large city in the U.S. according to 2023 U.S. Census Bureau data, Fort Worth, Texas, offers a low-cost, business-friendly environment that appeals to both emerging and established companies. The city hosts the corporate headquarters of major companies like Alcon, GM Financial, and American Airlines, with the latter’s largest hub at DFW International Airport providing quick connections to either coast in about four hours.
Fort Worth’s vibrant entertainment districts, world-class cultural attractions, and 100 miles of running trails along the Trinity River make it a desirable location for career-driven young professionals. Additionally, the recently established Fort Worth Medical Innovation District in the Near Southside is driving collaboration among public and private entities, along with academic institutions, to bolster the region’s life sciences industry, build strong workforce pipelines, and foster a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem for long-term growth.
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Google's Verily Life Sciences Announces
DFW Headquarter Move
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Verily Life Sciences, the Alphabet company focused on developing tools to collect and organize health data has just announced that it will be moving its headquarters to Dallas by the end of the third quarter. Dallas-based CEO Stephen Gillett noted that Verily recognizes the Dallas-Fort Worth area as an emerging center for technology innovation and healthcare.
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Texas Tops U.S. in Job Growth, Sets Employment Records
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Governor Greg Abbott announced that Texas remains at the forefront of job creation, surpassing all other states over the past year. The latest June employment data reveals record highs in both the number of Texans employed and the overall size of the labor force. “Texas continues to lead the nation in annual job creation, with more Texans working than ever before,” said Governor Abbott.
“Our state’s exceptional business climate makes it a magnet for entrepreneurs and industry leaders seeking a supportive environment to grow their businesses and offer opportunities for their employees. With our ongoing investments in education, workforce development, and critical infrastructure, we are not only building the strongest economy in the nation but also ensuring a prosperous future for Texas.”
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Transforming Innovation at Pegasus Park: On Campus
with Nicole Small & Matt Crommett
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In this episode of the Learning from Leaders podcast, host Lili Clark talks with Nicole Small, CEO of Lyda Hill Philanthropies and LH Capital, and Matt Crommett, Managing Director. They discuss Pegasus Park, a 26-acre campus focused on life sciences, biotech, and social innovation, and its impact on the Dallas biotech ecosystem. Nicole and Matt explore the blend of for-profit and nonprofit activities at Pegasus Park and its role in driving North Texas’s innovation and economic growth.
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2024 Fort Worth Inc's Entrepreneur of
Excellence Awards Program
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Fort Worth Inc.'s Entrepreneur of Excellence (EOE) awards recognize outstanding entrepreneurs who have made Fort Worth a top business hub through their vision, creativity, and integrity. These leaders excel in their industries with their leadership, perseverance, ethical practices, sales growth, and community involvement. Applicants are evaluated competitively within their categories, with winners announced at a formal ceremony and featured in various publications. You can nominate yourself or others for these prestigious awards.
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2024 Excellence in Healthcare Awards
Nominations ends on August 8, 2024
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D CEO and D CEO Healthcare announce the 2024 Excellence in Healthcare Awards, honoring outstanding executives, practitioners, and organizations in healthcare despite ongoing challenges. The program also recognizes corporate wellness initiatives across industries in North Texas. Finalists will be featured in December’s D CEO issue and at D CEO Healthcare.
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To Cure A Rose Foundation Hosting Summer Summit and Gala
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The To Cure a Rose Foundation would like to invite you to their Rose Gala weekend. Join them on August 9th for a mini RoseFest and August 10th for the Precision Medicine Summit and Rose Gala dinner.
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Need Resources? The BioNTX Member Center Is Your Source!
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Explore our new, online Member Center! Track events, search for grants and funding, post job openings, browse, and connect with other members!
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Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs to Resolve Penicillin Shortages
Through Import Initiatives
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Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus Drug Company is teaming up with the FDA to temporarily import and distribute penicillin to address current shortages. The online pharmacy plans to import 1.2 million units of penicillin to fill the supply gap caused by Pfizer’s Bicillin L-A, which is anticipated to be fully available later this year. Cost Plus will distribute Lentocilin, a penicillin powder from Portugal-based Laboratórios Atral.
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Johnson & Johnson Seeks FDA Approval for SPRAVATO® Nasal Spray as Standalone Treatment for Depression
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Johnson & Johnson has filed a supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) with the FDA to approve SPRAVATO® (esketamine) CIII nasal spray as a monotherapy for adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). TRD affects about 30% of the 280 million people worldwide with major depressive disorder (MDD), who have not responded to two or more oral antidepressants.
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The Future of Neurostimulation: Practical Application and Use
With Spark Biomedical
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In a recent interview, Spark Biomedical CEO Daniel Powell discusses how far wearable brain stimulators have come. The CEO adding "the results of the clinical are so quick. It's possible to take someone on the ground in the fetal position going through horrible withdrawal, and in one hour of stimulation they could be sitting here having this interview."
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Leveraging AI to Overcome Challenges and Enhance
Success Rates in AAV-Based Therapies
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AAV-based therapies have the potential to revolutionize the treatment of genetic diseases with one-time cures. However, the path from vector design to successful clinical application is challenging. AI's ability to manage and analyze vast amounts of biological data can enhance vector designs and improve experimental outcomes, making these potentially life-saving treatments available to patients more efficiently and effectively.
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Quality-Over-Cost: Exploring Priorities in Biologics Manufacturing
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In biologics manufacturing, quality is crucial for success and patient safety. Compromising on quality can lead to significant long-term costs, including direct expenses for addressing failures, indirect costs from development delays, reputational damage, and risks to patient health. To ensure a CDMO’s commitment to quality, conduct thorough audits and review their quality track record. Investing in quality is essential and will ultimately provide greater long-term benefits.
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Tarleton State University Unveils New Research
and Economic Development Building
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Tarleton State University’s new Research and Economic Development Building officially opened today. The 10,000-square-foot facility will serve both Tarleton and Texas A&M AgriLife for research and regional partnerships.
The building will house Tarleton’s Institute for Rural Economic Development and Research and the Small Business Development Center. It aims to advance research, innovation, and economic growth in North Central Texas. Texas A&M System Chancellor John Sharp and Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley highlighted the building’s role in driving regional prosperity and enhancing research capabilities.
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Deloitte Named #1 Consulting Firm for Seventh Consecutive Year
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For the seventh consecutive year and the twelfth time overall, Deloitte has been ranked No. 1 by revenue in Gartner's "Market Share Analysis: Consulting Services, Worldwide, 2023" report. Deloitte also received a Strong rating, the highest possible, in Gartner's "Vendor Rating: Deloitte" report.
Additionally, Deloitte ranked first in business and technology consulting services for the third straight year and was recognized as the largest security services provider.
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The Vital Role of Sterilization Tools in Biotech and Patient Care
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Sterilization pouches, though often overlooked compared to other methods, are crucial for ensuring the sterility of reusable surgical instruments in healthcare and biotech settings.
These play a key role in maintaining a sterile environment, essential for safe and effective patient care. In biotech, where precision and cleanliness are vital, sterilization pouches offer a dependable method for sterilizing lightweight, reusable instruments. Their use helps ensure that instruments remain uncontaminated during sensitive procedures, thereby upholding high standards of patient safety and the integrity of biotech research and development.
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UNTHSC’s TCOM Secures Tier 1 Ranking for Primary Care
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The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth’s Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine (TCOM) has been ranked a Tier 1 medical school for primary care by U.S. News & World Report for 2024- an award bestowed to only 15 schools nationwide. Dr. Frank Filipetto and Dr. Sylvia Trent-Adams praised the faculty, staff, and students for their dedication and hard work, which has elevated TCOM to one of the top osteopathic schools in Texas and nationwide.
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UTA Research Reveals Geographic Disparities in Chronic Pain
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University of Texas at Arlington researcher, Feinuo Sun, PhD, has explored how geographic location may influence chronic pain, particularly arthritis. Her study, published in PAIN journal, found significant regional variations in pain prevalence, suggesting that pain intensity can be higher in areas with socioeconomic disadvantages and limited healthcare access. Sun advocates for localized policies and further research to address geographic disparities in pain.
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Morgan Stanley Leads Funding Round for AI Heart Startup
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Octagos Health, a company producing AI-driven cardiac device monitoring solutions, today announced a successful equity raise of over $43 million in investment capital led by funds managed by Morgan Stanley Expansion Capital, with continued participation from Mucker Capital and other strategic investors.
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UTD Research Reveals Potential of Vagus Nerve Stimulation
in Reducing Drug-Seeking Behavior
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Researchers at The University of Texas at Dallas have found that vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) may help retrain the brain to reduce drug-seeking behavior by enhancing the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Dr. Sven Kroener led the study, published in The Journal of Neuroscience, which builds on prior research showing that both BDNF and VNS can individually lower drug-seeking behavior. The study explores if combining these approaches can effectively reduce addiction-related behaviors.
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(Above left) Christopher Driskill and Dr. Sven Kroener, demonstrated that vagus nerve stimulation may decrease drug-seeking behavior.
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UTSW Named No. 1 Hospital in DFW for Eighth Year
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UT Southwestern Medical Center is ranked No. 1 in Dallas-Fort Worth for the eighth consecutive year and leads Texas hospitals with top rankings in 11 specialties, according to U.S. News & World Report. The hospital is among the top 25 for cancer, cardiology, heart, and vascular surgery; diabetes and endocrinology; neurology and neurosurgery; pulmonology and lung surgery; and rehabilitation. UT Southwestern is also rated “High Performing” in 19 of 20 procedures and conditions, including aortic valve surgery and spinal fusion. The hospital is ranked No. 2 overall in Texas and holds “High Performing” designations for 19 procedures and conditions.
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Vote Good Days for the Charity Community Choice Awards
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National non-profit, Good Days, has been nominated for the Charity Navigator Community Choice Awards, empowering supporters to recognize and celebrate the exceptional work of top-rated charities. Vote for patients, your family, and your fellow BioNTX Members!
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Growing Legacies: North Texas Vision & Eye Care Innovation
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Experimentica is a global contract research organization with expertise in Ophthalmology and preclinical ocular models. The company services sponsors from Pharma, Biotech, and Academia through a network of laboratory sites in Finland, Lithuania, the United States, and France.
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50 Years of Excellence: Serving the Life Science Industry
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Southwestern Controls is a cutting edge, technical distribution company, with over 50 years of success meeting ever-changing market needs. They represent and distribute technical products (fluid power and fluid conditioning) for 37 different manufacturers across Texas, Oklahoma, and Mexico.
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FUNDING & MENTORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
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Texas Tech Presidents' Innovative Startup Award
Applications due on July 31, 2024
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Through these funding programs and opportunities, CPRIT grows the cancer-fighting ecosystem across Texas, providing life-extending results, and tangible economic benefits throughout the State.
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Small Business Accessibility Grant
Applications due on July 31, 2024
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The Accelerate Small Business Accessibility Grant supports small business owners, and their employees, with funds to offset or cover fees associated with accessibility, connectivity, and mobility, in advancing the business owner’s professional capacity, business awareness, regulatory compliance, or revenue potential. Funds may be used to offset or cover costs associated with eligible business expenses.
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Level Up Accelerator Program
Applications due on August 5, 2024
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If you are looking to scale your operations team and build a sustainable pathway to capital, the Your Level Up Accelerator Program is for you! The 11-week DEC program focuses on for-profit businesses established for 2-5 years and generating revenue of more than $50,000 annually.
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2024 iC³ Tech Transfer Showcase Application Portal is now OPEN
Applications due on August 12, 2024
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The Tech Transfer Showcase at the iC³ Life Science Summit provides a prime opportunity to present promising intellectual property to a select audience of industry leaders and investors, opening doors to potential collaborations and funding opportunities. All Tech Transfer Showcase applicants compete for a cash prize.
Submission Guidelines
- Application deadline August 12, 2024 at 11:59 pm
- Open to all university technology transfer offices in Texas
- Two submissions per university campus
- Applications will be reviewed by a panel of industry experts
- The top six applicants will advance to podium pitch at the annual iC3 Summit
- Winning applicants will be paired with an industry mentor to help craft and polish your presentation
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Upcoming Events & Opportunities
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Talent Network Meet & Greet - Fort Worth
Join BioNTX for our Talent Network Meet & Greet to expand your network by connecting with industry professionals, potential employers, and fellow job seekers.
August 27, 2024 | Fort Worth, TX
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BioNTX "Summer Sizzler" Happy Hour
Join the BioNTX Facilities Advisory Committee in celebrating the end of summer with the life science community at McMillan James Equipment Company!
August 28, 2024 | Grapevine, TX
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Talent Network Meet & Greet - Dallas
Join BioNTX for our Talent Network Meet & Greet to expand your network by connecting with industry professionals, potential employers, and fellow job seekers,
August 29, 2024 | Dallas, TX
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Good Days Exchange
Join Good Days to be a part of a community dedicated to increasing awareness through education and partnerships, and supporting equitable solutions for individuals affected by chronic and rare diseases.
September 18-19, 2024 | Grapevine, TX
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Annual Tech Titans Awards
Join Tech Titans to witness the innovators, adopters and executors impacting the technology industry for the greater good.
September 20, 2024 | Addison, TX
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Pharma Logistics Masterclass
Join Pharma.Aero to gain advanced insight into how pharmaceutical supply chains are organised and what scientific methods can be applied to optimize logistics processes for the pharma and life sciences sector.
September 29- October 3, 2024 | Dallas, TX
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Celebrating a Decade of Innovation and Excellence in North Texas
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BioNTX is thrilled to announce our 10th Annual iC³ Life Science and Healthcare Innovation Summit, taking place on October 3rd and October 4th at the Arlington Convention Center at the Loews Hotel.
Join us for a two-day event where the most innovative minds from North Texas, the broader Southwest region and across the United States converge. Our Summit offers a vibrant platform for the bioscience and healthcare innovation to engage in thought-provoking discussions, share groundbreaking research, and delve into emerging technologies shaping the future of healthcare and biomedicine.
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Thank You for Your Membership & Support!
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