A Glance at the North Texas Epicenter of Innovation
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The Dallas - Fort Worth metroplex has always been a hotbed for innovation. According to the Dallas Regional Chamber, UT Southwestern alone has had over 80 spinoff biotech companies created. This past June, CBRE listed DFW as 16th in nation for biotech manufacturing, medical technology, and R&D talent.
The research and talent for biotech has been in the DFW area for quite a while, the problem has been a lack of lab space for companies to grow here locally. Pegasus Park now serves as a catalyst for Innovation and the lab space boom happening in the DFW Metroplex.
The local 37,000-square-foot shared lab and office space for young life sciences companies, Biolabs at Pegasus Park holds about 35 startups. The facility boasts 90 six-foot rentable lab benches for tenants and provides researchers unlimited access to cold storage and $5 million worth of lab equipment. Private Labs are also available.
Currently, over 580 acres have been dedicated to research and education space across the metroplex, along with ongoing projects totaling 1.3 million square feet of wet labs and office space. These figures do not include the numerous projects yet to be announced.
With the announcements that life science companies are moving their headquarters to Dallas, the DFW metroplex is primed to become the next big Biotech hub.
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Lyda Hill Honored as Philanthropist
of the Year by American Cancer Society
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Lyda Hill Philanthropies has been awarded the American Cancer Society’s Philanthropist of the Year Award for its significant contributions to cancer research and support initiatives. This honor highlights their crucial role in launching BrightEdge, a program designed to promote innovation in cancer care and support emerging leaders in the field.
The Philanthropy Partner of the Year Award is given to individuals or foundations that show exceptional dedication to the American Cancer Society's mission through innovative fundraising, strategic support, and impactful collaborations.
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Ensuring Cold Chain Integrity in the Life Sciences:
Insights from DFW Airport's Milton De La Paz
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In this interview with Cold Chain Unbroken, Milton De La Paz, Vice President of Airline Relations at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), discusses the airport's critical role in the life sciences industry by maintaining an unbroken and tamper-proof cold chain.
He emphasizes DFW's importance in preserving the integrity of perishables, especially in pharmaceuticals and biologics, while highlighting its commitment to sustainability as the first airport in North America to achieve carbon neutrality.
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Innovating Addiction Recovery: A Conversation
with Daniel Powell of Spark Biomedical
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In this episode, Daniel Powell, CEO and co-founder of Spark Biomedical, discusses their groundbreaking wearable neurostimulation technology designed for drug-free opioid withdrawal and addiction recovery. With 25 years of experience, Daniel has spearheaded the development of the FDA-cleared Sparrow Ascent, a device that alleviates withdrawal symptoms.
He shares Spark Biomedical's journey, the science behind their innovations, and insights on securing funding, navigating regulations, and the power of storytelling in investor pitches.
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Explore Waco's Life Science Growth with BioNTX at the BRIC
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Thank You New & Renewing BioNTX Members
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Unlock Exclusive BioNTX Member Discounts
on Biotech Primer’s On-Demand Courses
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BioNTX is excited to offer members exclusive discounts on Biotech Primer’s on-demand courses, covering essential topics in biopharmaceutical and medical device industries—from foundational science to commercialization and global regulatory processes.
Taught by industry veterans, these courses deliver practical insights and knowledge you can immediately apply. Select courses also offer NASBA-compliant CPE credits for added professional development. Learn at your own pace, on your own schedule, from anywhere.
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DLR Group Begins New Chapter in DFW
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The DLR Group opened their flagship Dallas Office earlier this year. The employee owned firm held a party in the new 13,500 square foot office space to welcome the community. CEO Steven McKay closed the night with a toast to the new beginning for the Texas team.
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Product Prototyping & Medical Device Experts
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Huck Medical Technologies is at the forefront of healthcare innovation, transforming patient care through cutting-edge medical devices and technologies. With a commitment to improving outcomes and enhancing quality of life, Huck Medical is pioneering solutions that blend advanced engineering with user-friendly design. Their capabilities range from product prototyping, to navigating the medical device regulatory pathway, all the way to manufacturing.
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Alloy Therapeutics and Scripps Research Partner to Accelerate Antibody and Vaccine Discovery with ATX-Gx™ Platform
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Alloy Therapeutics has partnered with Scripps Research, giving its scientists access to Alloy’s ATX-Gx™ platform, a leading human transgenic mouse technology for antibody and vaccine discovery. Used by over 170 partners, the ATX-Gx platform enables efficient discovery of human-like antibodies with minimal need for optimization. This collaboration marks an expansion into vaccine development, allowing Scripps to accelerate breakthroughs in antibody and vaccine research across various diseases.
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FUJIFILM Diosynth and TG Therapeutics Partner to
Expand U.S. Manufacturing of MS Drug BRIUMVI®
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FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies has entered into a multi-year manufacturing agreement with TG Therapeutics for BRIUMVI® (ublitiximab-xiiy), a treatment for relapsing multiple sclerosis. This agreement designates FUJIFILM Diosynth's new Holly Springs, North Carolina facility—expected to be fully operational by 2025—as a secondary U.S.-based manufacturing site for the drug. The partnership aims to bolster TG Therapeutics' supply chain as it expands BRIUMVI's market reach, leveraging FUJIFILM’s global manufacturing capabilities to meet rising demand for biotherapeutics.
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Johnson & Johnson Completes Pilot Enrollment for
OMNY-AF Trial on New AFib Treatment Platform
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Johnson & Johnson has completed the pilot phase enrollment for the OMNY-AF clinical trial, which evaluates the investigational OMNYPULSE™ Platform for treating paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AFib) in the U.S. and Australia. This single-arm study will assess the 12-month safety and effectiveness of the OMNYPULSE™ Platform, combining Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) with the CARTO™ 3 System’s real-time mapping.
After FDA review of the pilot data, the trial will enter its pivotal phase, enrolling up to 410 more patients. The OMNYPULSE™ Platform aims to enhance treatment precision and efficiency for AFib, a common heart arrhythmia affecting millions worldwide.
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Lantern Pharma Pioneers Treatment for
Non-Smoker Lung Cancer Patients
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Lung cancer patients often face stigma and a lack of support due to the disease's association with smoking. Despite being the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., funding and awareness for lung cancer research remain limited, particularly for the 15 to 25 percent of patients who have never smoked.
Lantern Pharma is addressing the stigma of lung cancer among the 15 to 25 percent of patients who have never smoked by conducting a Phase 2 trial for its HARMONIC treatment targeting advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The trial reported an 86 percent clinical benefit rate with significant tumor reductions and no safety concerns. As lung cancer incidence rises among non-smokers, Lantern is expanding its trials to Japan and Taiwan, partnering with the National Cancer Center in Tokyo. Leveraging AI, the company develops cost-effective treatments for smaller patient populations while maintaining a burn rate under $20 million.
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Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company Partners
with eNavvi to Transform Prescription Access
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Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company (Cost Plus Drugs) and eNavvi, Inc. are excited to announce a strategic collaboration that streamlines the prescription process for physicians and patients. This partnership enables physicians to prescribe medications directly through eNavvi's digital prescription pad to over 7,000 independent pharmacies and major grocery pharmacy chains, enhancing convenience and price transparency.
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Nanoscope Therapeutics Reports Positive Results
for MCO-010 in Retinal Disease Trial
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Nanoscope Therapeutics, Inc. announced promising two-year results from the Phase 2b RESTORE trial of MCO-010, a mutation-agnostic gene therapy for advanced retinitis pigmentosa. The trial showed a mean best-corrected visual acuity improvement of approximately 0.3 LogMAR, with significant enhancements in high-dose patients at weeks 52 and 76. MCO-010 was well tolerated, with no serious adverse events. These findings support the upcoming BLA submission and offer hope for patients with severe vision loss.
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Secretome Therapeutics Secures Key Patents
for Novel Cardiac Therapies
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Secretome Therapeutics has received a composition of matter patent for its lead asset, STM-01, a novel therapy derived from neonatal cardiac progenitor cells (nCPCs). The company has also secured a patent for STM-21, its lead secretome product. These patents enhance Secretome's intellectual property portfolio, providing protection through 2035, and enable the advancement of its pipeline.
"With these patents in place, we can confidently move our development candidates forward as we prepare to launch two Phase 1 studies for STM-01 by the end of this year," said President and CEO Vinny Jindal. STM-01 aims to treat severe cardiovascular diseases, including dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.
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Fostering a Culture of Safety in Laboratories:
Halyard's Impact on Worker Protection
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A safe laboratory environment is essential for effective scientific research and handling hazardous materials. Laboratories must maintain controlled conditions and adhere to strict safety standards due to the risks associated with hazardous drugs, chemicals, and biologics.
Owens & Minor HALYARD* provides high-quality personal protective equipment (PPE) essential for creating safe laboratory environments. Labs often handle hazardous materials, making safety a top priority. High-quality PPE, including gloves, masks, and goggles, protects laboratory workers and ensures the integrity of scientific work. By prioritizing safety culture and equipping staff with reliable protective gear, laboratories can minimize risks and foster a safer working environment.
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McMillan James Equipment Company Partners with Cleaver-Brooks to Enhance Boiler Solutions in Texas
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McMillan James Equipment Company, a leading representative for HVAC and plumbing solutions, announces its partnership with Cleaver-Brooks, a global boiler manufacturer. This collaboration will expand access to Cleaver-Brooks' innovative and reliable boiler systems for industrial, commercial, and institutional clients across Texas.
“We are excited to partner with Cleaver-Brooks, known for their performance and efficiency,” said Isaac Henson, VP of Sales at McMillan James. “Together, we will deliver top-tier solutions and exceptional service to meet the complex needs of today’s market.”
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TechFW’s Cowtown Angels and SWAN Impact Network
Collaborate to Streamline Angel Investing in Texas
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(from left to right) Heather Gilker and Ryan Brown
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Cowtown Angels, a program of TechFW, has partnered with the SWAN Impact Network (SWAN) to unite fragmented angel investment networks across Texas. This initiative, led by Ryan Brown, CEO of TechFW, and Heather Gilker, North Texas Chapter Lead of SWAN, aims to create a more efficient investment environment for startups and investors.
The partnership will facilitate knowledge sharing and simplify investments using common criteria, including a strong management team, unique products, scalability, and exit strategies.
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Baylor University Faculty Recognized Among Top 2%
of Most-Cited Researchers Worldwide
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Baylor University boasts 43 current and retired faculty members and postdoctoral researchers recognized among the top 2% of most-cited researchers globally, according to a Stanford University database that covers 22 scientific fields and 174 sub-fields. This recognition underscores the impact of research published in peer-reviewed journals, as citations reflect the importance of a scholar's work in advancing knowledge. Guided by its strategic plan, Baylor in Deeds, the university aims to enhance global research influence through publication and citation.
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Tarleton State University Celebrates Grand Opening
of New Healthcare Education Facility
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Click the arrow to watch video of Grand Opening
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Tarleton State University has unveiled its new Interprofessional Education (IPE) Building on the Fort Worth campus, a $66 million facility featuring over 100,000 square feet of classrooms and specialized labs. This state-of-the-art space will enhance healthcare education and training, offering simulation suites and community event areas.
Texas A&M System Chancellor John Sharp highlighted its importance in addressing local workforce needs. The building will support the expansion of programs in nursing, nutrition science, and other health-related fields, as Tarleton aims to increase the supply of healthcare professionals in Texas, which ranks low in patient-physician ratios.
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UTA Study Reveals How Symbiotic Algae Weaken Jellyfish Immunity, Impacting Coral Health
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A study from The University of Texas at Arlington reveals that the symbiotic relationship between jellyfish and algae, while beneficial for food production, may weaken the jellyfish’s immune system. Researchers found that jellyfish polyps with algae had lower survival rates when exposed to harmful bacteria, as the algae altered the jellyfish’s immune response.
This discovery has significant implications for coral health, as corals also rely on symbiotic algae. Understanding how this relationship affects immunity could help protect marine life, particularly in the face of disease outbreaks and climate change challenges.
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UTA Researchers Awarded NIH Grant to
Study Brain Aging with High-Resolution Imaging
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(from left to right) Dr. Karen Rodrigue and Dr. Kristen Kennedy
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Researchers from The University of Texas at Dallas, Dr. Kristen Kennedy and Dr. Karen Rodrigue, received a NIH grant to expand their study of brain aging. Using a powerful 7-Tesla MRI scanner, they will collect data over 14 years to explore brain structure, function, and cognition, focusing on the metabolic factors influencing healthy brain aging and potential pathologies like Alzheimer's disease.
The study aims to uncover biomarkers and better understand individual differences in brain aging through five waves of data collection.
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UNTHSC’s MHA Program Ranked Among Texas’ Best
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EduMed.org has recognized the Master of Health Administration (MHA) program at the University of North Texas Health Science Center (HSC) in Fort Worth as one of the best and most affordable in Texas, ranking it fourth this year. The site connects students with top programs in over 70 medical and health fields and emphasizes student outcomes and academic quality in its rankings.
HSC's MHA program, designed for early career and working professionals, prepares students to become leaders in healthcare, with a focus on improving health systems and community outcomes. The program offers both full-time and part-time online options, ensuring flexibility for students with at least two years of healthcare experience.
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UTSW Uncovers Role of Ancient Viruses
in Blood Cell Production During Pregnancy
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(from left to right) Julia Phan, PhD, and Sean J. Morrison, PhD
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Research from the Children's Medical Center Research Institute at UT Southwestern has found that ancient viral remnants in the human genome, called retrotransposons, are activated during pregnancy and after significant blood loss to boost blood cell production. Led by Dr. Sean J. Morrison and Dr. Julia Phan, the study showed that these typically inactive sequences are turned on in pregnant mice's stem cells. The activation is linked to immune sensors cGAS and STING, which help trigger increased blood cell production, suggesting that retrotransposons may offer adaptive benefits rather than merely causing harm.
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Thought Leader McCownGordon Talks Lab Efficiency
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In the fast-paced world of pharmaceutical and biotech manufacturing, facility efficiency, sustainability, and profitability are crucial. Brandon Hiatt, drawing on years of expertise, shares strategies to navigate key challenges like supply chain delays, labor shortages, and shifting regulations. His insights offer facility managers and business leaders guidance on building spaces that fuel innovation and deliver lasting value.
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Saving Lives & Building Brains
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Last month, BioNTX leadership was invited to participate in an exclusive convening, the Building Brains Summit, to explore how to create brain healthy places that unlock hidden potential. Innovators, academics, business leaders, government officials, non-profits and investors, from Texas and beyond, framed the coalition at this event co-hosted by CADRE, Center for BrainHealth and HKS.
Did you know that your brain is plastic and you can take simple daily action to calibrate mental energy, reinforce strategic thinking and ignite innovation? The Building Brains Coalition explores the potential of our built environment (physical experiences, buildings, cities) to afford better brain health for enhanced human, economic, planetary and societal outcomes.
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FUNDING & MENTORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
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NIH Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) for Undergraduate-Focused Institutions
Program ends May 8, 2027
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The purpose of this Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) for Undergraduate-Focused Institutions is to support small scale research grants at institutions that do not receive substantial funding from the NIH, with an emphasis on providing biomedical research experiences primarily for undergraduate students, and enhancing the research environment at applicant institutions.
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Upcoming Events & Opportunities
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North Texas Cancer Advocacy Breakfast
Join the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACSCAN) as they host their annual Cancer Advocacy Breakfast.
November 13th | Dallas, TX
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Health Wildcatters Pitch Day 2024
Join the Health Wildcatters for an exciting in-person event on Pegasus Park's 16th floor! Get ready to witness some of the most innovative healthcare startups present their 5-minute pitch.
November 14th | Dallas, TX
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Innovation Showcase
Join VelocityTX and other leaders from across San Antonio's innovation ecosystem as we come together to celebrate our city's startup community. This open house-style event will highlight our work to advance San Antonio's bioscience and military medical communities as we develop an urban Innovation District that will promote inclusive economic opportunity for generations to come.
November 14th | San Antonio, TX
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WEDallas Business + Showcase Pitch
Join WEDallas (Women Entrepreneurs Dallas) for their signature program created by Capital One & The DEC Network. This year-round program is designed to equip, inspire, and empower women entrepreneurs in North Texas. The 2024 WEDallas Cohort sponsored by Capital One is ready to pitch!
November 20th | Dallas, TX
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A Scientist’s Guide to U.S. Residency:
Expert Tips for Foreign Scientists
Join ACS for a webinar with Brian H. Getson, Esq., a leading immigration attorney from Getson & Schatz, P.C. for expert advice on navigating U.S. immigration laws specific to scientists.
November 21st | Virtual
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Life Science in Waco: A City to Believe in
Join BioNTX at the Baylor Research and Innovation Collaborative (BRIC) as we spotlight the rapid growth of Waco's life science industry. This exciting event will feature two dynamic panels—Why Choose Waco, where city and chamber officials will discuss Waco's appeal as a business hub, and Innovation and Growth: Waco's Life Science Landscape, highlighting local life science and medical innovation businesses driving change.
December 5th | Waco, TX
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New Year, New Career: LinkedIn Playbook for Personal Branding & Networking
Join BioNTX to learn innovative LinkedIn personal branding and networking strategies to land your dream job, C-suite role, consulting gig, or next internal promotion. Gain valuable insights and practical advice to ensure your career success from a seasoned Executive Career Coach and an Executive Search professional.
December 10th | Virtual
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Investor Connect with Nextech Invest
Join Launch Bio and Silicon Valley Bank for a virtual event with Nextech, a global therapeutics-focused venture capital firm headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland with affiliate offices in Boston and San Francisco. They invest in companies developing promising therapeutics for oncology and oncology-adjacent disease areas. Apply for consideration.
December 12th | Virtual
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Thank You for Your Membership & Support!
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