CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA, JULY 26, 2023 — RIVANNA®, developers of imaging-based medical solutions, announced that they have received funding totaling $30.5 million over 39 months from early execution of an option by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), part of the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The funding will support the further advanced development of the Accuro® XV for comprehensive point-of-care musculoskeletal diagnostics as well as submission of an application for FDA clearance.

"Completing our base-stage performance milestones ahead of schedule is a testament to our organization's dedication and commitment to healthcare innovation," said Delphine Le Roux, PhD, PMP, Director of Program Management. “As a direct consequence of this accomplishment, the project received early option one funding, expediting Accuro XV's product development and initial clinical evaluations for FDA clearance. The continued support of our funding partners underscores the strong collaboration built on trust among all stakeholders involved in this effort," added Le Roux.

NORTON, Va. and PETERBOROUGH, ON, July 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Solar Biotech Inc., a Norton, Virginia-based provider of complete sustainable and scalable biomanufacturing solutions, continues to build out its vertically integrated organization by acquiring Noblegen, an advanced digital biology company based in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada.

Noblegen will now operate under the name Solar Biotech Canada, continuing as the organization's food-grade-certified (SQF9) biomanufacturing and research & development hub in Canada. The new company will leverage both partners' strengths in microbiology and biomanufacturing to offer revolutionary biotech and synthetic biology ("SynBio") solutions for a wide range of applications.

The 6th Annual BioHealth Capital Region Investor Conference is just around the corner! Taking place on September 21st, 2023, at the US Pharmacopeia, this in-person event brings together ambitious entrepreneurs, startup-up companies and innovative BioHealth companies with a diverse group of influential investors, offering funding opportunities ranging from pre-seed to Series A.

The BioHealth Capital Region is renowned for its vibrant biotechnology and life sciences community, a breeding ground for groundbreaking advancements and success stories. The conference's history is marked with exceptional achievements, from initial funding rounds to subsequent financings, successful IPOs, and engaging M&A activities.

SILVER SPRING, Md. & RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- United Therapeutics Corporation (Nasdaq: UTHR), a public benefit corporation, announced today that the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit affirmed the district court decision in the patent litigation United Therapeutics brought against Liquidia Technologies, Inc. The Federal Circuit affirmed that Liquidia’s proposed Yutrepia™ product infringes a United Therapeutics’ patent, U.S. Patent No. 10,716,793 (the ’793 patent). As a result, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cannot grant Liquidia final approval for its Yutrepia product until expiration of the ’793 patent, May 14, 2027, except in certain circumstances discussed below.

Galen Robotics has claimed a de novo device clearance from the FDA for its digital surgical assistant, designed to provide a helping hand during ear, nose and throat operations.

The motorized ES system helps stabilize the surgeon’s direct manual control of their instrument—with the goal of reducing natural hand tremors and other movements—to supply greater precision in minimally invasive procedures on soft tissue, as well as offer the ability to let go of the swappable tool and have it remain in place.

The Baltimore-based company, with technology originally spun out of Johns Hopkins University, also aims to promote the device through a “digital-surgery-as-a-service” platform. 

• Emergent has been delivering CYFENDUS™ vaccine to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services since 2019, under pre-Emergency Use Authorization status, and will continue to work with the U.S. government to transition to post-approval procurement

GAITHERSBURG, Md., July 20, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Emergent BioSolutions Inc. (NYSE:EBS) announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved CYFENDUS™ (Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed, Adjuvanted), previously known as AV7909, for post-exposure prophylaxis of disease following suspected or confirmed exposure to Bacillus anthracis in persons 18 through 65 years of age when administered in conjunction with recommended antibacterial drugs. The efficacy of CYFENDUS™ vaccine for post-exposure prophylaxis is based solely on studies in animal models of inhalational anthrax.

“The approval of CYFENDUS™ vaccine is symbolic of Emergent's longstanding partnership with the U.S. government and our shared commitment to helping protect public health,” said Dr. Kelly Warfield, Emergent’s senior vice president, science and development. “The 20-year journey from early development to approval is a major milestone that attests to Emergent's scientific and technical prowess and partnering capabilities. We are grateful for the yearslong collaboration with the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) and early support from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). Congratulations to the Emergent team and all our partners for advancing this product to approval.”

Talented, diverse, and experienced leaders tapped to support Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies

COLUMBIA, Md. (July 20, 2023) – TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, held its annual election for the board of directors’ executive officers, reaffirming another term for Chair Omar Muhammad of Morgan State University (MSU).

TEDCO’s full slate of executive officers are:

• Chair – Omar S. Muhammad
• Vice Chair – Ellen Flowers-Fields
• Secretary – Kathie Callahan Brady
• Treasurer – Jeffrey Rhoda
• Assistant Treasurer – Eben Smith

“I’m excited to continue serving on the board of directors. Our work has focused on supporting TEDCO’s mission of creating an enhanced, diverse and inclusive ecosystem throughout the state, and we look forward to continuing this mission through the various resources and programs TEDCO has to offer,” said Omar Muhammad, chair of the board. “In particular, I am excited to move forward with the Cultivate Maryland initiative, a major project that will support the growth of a diverse innovation economy thereby increasing Maryland’s competitiveness as an innovation economy and supporting larger retention and attraction of trained workers.”

Andrew Lees has received The Derek Horton Award in Industrial Carbohydrate Chemistry for outstanding contributions to industrial carbohydrate chemistry.

The Derek Horton Award in Industrial Carbohydrate Chemistry is awarded by the CARB division of the American Chemical Society and acknowledges distinguished achievements in and outstanding contributions to industrial carbohydrate chemistry.  Lees’ award was for his contributions to the field of protein polysaccharide conjugate vaccines, including the development of CDAP chemistry and a low-cost CRM₁₉₇ carrier protein.

Licensing agreement utilizing MilliporeSigma’s CRISPR genome-editing technology supports the advancement of Vita’s pipeline

‍Baltimore, MD, July 18, 2023 – Vita Therapeutics, Inc. today announced a licensing agreement between Vita and MilliporeSigma, the U.S. and Canada Life Science business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. Under the agreement, Vita will leverage MilliporeSigma’s foundational CRISPR patents to advance the development of its preclinical asset VTA-100 for the treatment of limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD2A). Financial and other terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

“Our purpose is to impact life and health with science, empowering customers to deliver breakthroughs such as Vita's impactful, health-advancing research,” said Christopher Arnot, Director of Licensing and Business Development, Gene Editing, MilliporeSigma.

“For people with limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, the calpain 3 (CAPN3) gene is mutated in satellite cells,” said Douglas Falk, MS, Chief Executive Officer at Vita Therapeutics. “MilliporeSigma’s proprietary CRISPR genome-editing technology will allow us to insert a functional copy of the gene into those cells, taking us an important step forward in advancing the development of VTA-100 as a potential cell therapy.”

The Small Business Transition Grant application period is now open, providing a valuable opportunity for early-career academic scientists to transition into entrepreneurship. Graduating students and postdoctoral researchers who have engaged in technology discovery during their academic pursuits and are prepared to embark on a small business venture are encouraged to apply. The eligible technology must fall under one of the following categories: therapeutics and preventive agents, imaging technologies, interventional devices, and in vivo diagnostics, as well as in vitro and ex vivo diagnostics and prognostics.

Maryland-based biotechnology business working to save lives through innovative solutions

COLUMBIA, Md. (July 17, 2023) – TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announced a recent $500,000 State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) investment into KaloCyte, Inc. This investment came through TEDCO’s Venture Funds.Elaine Haynes, KaloCyte CEO & President, a TEDCO portfolio company

“Blood is highly perishable, type-specific and blood shortages are common, so most emergency responders do not carry blood, delaying trauma patients access to this life-saving therapy” said Elaine Haynes, president and CEO of KaloCyte. “Thanks to the latest investment from TEDCO, KaloCyte can continue to research, develop, and advance ErythroMer towards clinical trials. With this innovative artificial red blood cell, we hope to save lives both on and off the battlefield.” TEDCO’s investment was matched by Vitalant, one of the nation’s largest nonprofit blood and biotherapies healthcare organizations.

Get ready for an exceptional experience at the 9th Annual BioHealth Capital Region Forum. Registration is now live for this highly anticipated event, taking place on September 19th and 20th, 2023, at the US Pharmacopeia (USP) facility located at 12601 Twinbrook Pkwy, Rockville, MD 20850.

Step into a world of innovation as we proudly present an entirely in-person experience under the theme "Global Breakthroughs for a Healthier Future." After a period of remote events, we're thrilled to bring together industry professionals for face-to-face interactions once again with no registration fees, thanks to our generous event sponsors!

Prepare to be part of the premier gathering for the biopharma sector, as the in-person BioHealth Capital Region Forum attracts over 1,100 registrants annually. Esteemed government officials, academic leaders, and industry executives will converge at this prestigious event, creating a vibrant atmosphere for reconnection, partnership rekindling, and exploration of new growth avenues within the region.

Applicants are encouraged to review the 2023 SBIR and STTR Omnibus Notices of Funding Opportunity (NOFOs).These NOFOs encourage small businesses to submit grant applications to NIH, CDC, and FDA for innovative ideas across the HHS mission space. The new NOFOs are listed below:

The Maryland Tech Council, the largest technology and life sciences trade association in the state, today welcomed a new chair and slate of technology and life sciences leaders to its board of directors. The new members join the board as MTC enjoys rapid growth in its membership, educational programs, and workforce development initiatives.

“I am thrilled to welcome these new members, who represent some of the most respected companies in Maryland’s innovation ecosystem,” said Kelly Schulz, CEO of the Maryland Tech Council. “Our ability to educate, connect, and advocate for members depends on diverse perspectives from creative and forward-thinking board members. I look forward to working with our board as we seek to make our state the destination of choice for innovators.”

New Device Provides an Effective, Hands-Free Solution to Stop Nosebleeds in Children and Adults

Adult and Pediatric NasaClip Sizes Provide Easy-To-Use Options for Chronic Nosebleed Sufferers, Healthcare Professionals, Parents, and Schools; First Available, U.S. Food and Drug Administration Registered Device with Age-Appropriate Sizing for Patients Aged 2 and Older

BALTIMORE, MD. (PRWEB) JULY 11, 2023

NasaClip, Inc., a Baltimore-based medical device company focused on improving the lives of patients with nosebleeds and the healthcare professionals who treat them today introduced the NasaClip, an easy-to-use device that provides constant, comfortable hands-free compression combined with intranasal sponges to stop nosebleeds quickly. NasaClip comes in an adult size for ages 14+, and pediatric size for children ages 2 to 13. It is the first nosebleed rescue device that provides adjustable nasal compression for children and adults and is registered with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Baltimore-based Digital Health Startup is Working to End Medication Errors and Streamline Workflows in Long-Term Care Settings

Baltimore, Md. (July 11, 2023) – Impruvon Health (“Impruvon”), a Baltimore-based digital health startup, announced today that it closed a financing round to support surging demand from healthcare organizations for its enterprise medication management platform. The round is led by The Propel Baltimore Fund from TCP Venture Capital, with participation from the University System of Maryland (USM) Momentum Fund (Momentum Fund) and New Dominion Angels.

Responding faster and more effectively to future public health challenges and emergencies will require the development of a specific, rapid acquisition vehicle. To achieve this, BARDA is launching the Rapid Response Partnership Vehicle (RRPV), the next generation of acquisition partnering to support U.S. health security.

In alignment with objectives outlined in the 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, BARDA seeks to leverage its Other Transaction Authority (OTA) to develop the RRPV. The RRPV will complement BARDA’s existing acquisition vehicles such as the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) and the Easy Broad Agency Announcement (EZ-BAA) and will expand the mechanisms through which BARDA can rapidly partner with product developers prior to and during an emergency response. With the RRPV in place, BARDA will be able to leverage OTA agreements to meet the dynamic needs of the BARDA mission through a streamlined, expedited process.

The long-awaited grand opening of the Sfax University Simulation Center has finally arrived, marking a new era of innovative learning and development in Sfax, Tunisia. The cutting-edge center promises to provide a hub for experiential learning, creating a springboard for high-potential projects to flourish. In the run-up to the opening, the team at the Simulation Center, supported by Johns Hopkins University,  held a series of fruitful meetings with local stakeholders. During these sessions updates were shared, and attendees were encouraged to submit their high potential projects for consideration, initiating direct engagement with the local community.

MaxCyte’s Flow Electroporation® technology and ExPERT™ platform will support Vittoria’s Senza5™ technology to enhance efficacy and improve clinical utility of T-cell therapies.

ROCKVILLE, Md. and PHILADELPHIA, July 10, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MaxCyte, Inc., (Nasdaq: MXCT; LSE: MXCT), a leading, cell-engineering focused company providing enabling platform technologies to advance the discovery, development and commercialization of next-generation cell-based therapeutics and to support innovative, cell-based research, and Vittoria Biotherapeutics (Vittoria), a leading edge, gene-edited cell therapeutics company with novel platform technologies poised to develop a pipeline of highly differentiated cellular therapies for both oncology and immunology indications, today announced the signing of a strategic platform license (SPL) of MaxCyte’s Flow Electroporation® technology and ExPERT™ platform to Vittoria Biotherapeutics.

Ever wondered how public-private partnerships can make a significant difference in the field of life sciences? Curious about the goals, expected impacts, and timeline of the Alliance for Building Better Medicine (ABBM)? Interested in exploring the transformative potential of the Virginia BioHealth ecosystem and its role in advancing the life sciences industry?

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FREDERICK, MARYLAND, July10, 2021: BioFactura, Inc. today announced that CuraTeQ Biologics Private Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Aurobindo Pharma Limited, has entered into an exclusive license to commercialize BFI-751, BioFactura’s proposed biosimilar to Stelara (Ustekinumab). Ustekinumab is a recombinant monoclonal antibody that works by blocking both interleukins IL-12 and IL-23 and is used for treating Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The global drug sales of Ustekinumab stood at close to 10 billion in 2022 presenting a significant opportunity with a good number of indications and a wider use.

WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Parker Health an innovative biotech company for electronic health records, hospital developer & management, and subscription-based health services, today announced that it has secured $25 million in Series A funding led by Bias Capital a multisector and multi-stage angel syndicate joined in this round by L’PAJ Ventures, CGT Capital Group, and other angel investors and family offices. This funding empowers Parker Health to further its position as the industry’s most compliant and competitive solution helping expand our medical technology and services and to employ global teams. Parker Health has raised $26.3 million to date.

The National Institutes for Health (NIH) has awarded $4.4 million to a University of Maryland researcher and a colleague to develop both a novel therapeutic and a vaccine approach to address Streptococcus pneumoniae, which is the leading cause of bacterial community-acquired pneumonia and the cause of death for about 1.6 million people annually.

Pneumococcal vaccinations are very effective, but target just a few of the more than 100 different strains of pneumococcus; they’re also unavailable in many developing countries. Additionally, antimicrobial resistance is on the rise globally, and poses a risk of pneumococcal disease that is increasingly difficult to combat.

Expectations are high for combining human and artificial intelligence against health problems.

“Start by determining the problem you desire to solve, then decide on the technology to solve it,” said Subha Madhavan, vice president and head of clinical artificial intelligence/machine learning with global biopharmaceutical company Pfizer. 

Madhavan was the keynote speaker at AI for Pediatric Health and Rare Diseases, an inter-institutional meeting of scientists and innovators co-led by Children’s National Hospital and the Virginia Tech Sanghani Center for Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics to discuss the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to understand pediatric health.

FREDERICK, Md., July 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Theradaptive, a biopharmaceutical firm pioneering advancements in targeted regenerative therapeutics, has been awarded the Manufacturing Assistance Program grant by the Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF). The grant will help Theradaptive develop their GMP Manufacturing Facility in Frederick, stimulating economic development in the state and bolstering Maryland's reputation as a hub of biotechnological innovation.

Theradaptive seeks to significantly improve patient outcomes by producing targeted therapeutics that can be used to coat implants, devices, and injectable carriers. Their proprietary protein-engineering platform aims to provide greater efficacy, safety, and ease of use across multiple clinical indications including orthopedics, immuno-oncology and dental.

Lyell Immunopharma to use MaxCyte’s Flow Electroporation® technology and ExPERT™ platform in its T cell product candidates targeting solid tumors.

ROCKVILLE, Md., July 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MaxCyte, Inc., (Nasdaq: MXCT; LSE: MXCT), a leading, cell-engineering focused company providing enabling platform technologies to advance the discovery, development and commercialization of next-generation cell-based therapeutics and to support innovative, cell-based research, today announced the signing of a strategic platform license (SPL) with Lyell Immunopharma, Inc., a clinical stage T cell reprogramming company.

George Mason University/USDA team find probiotics counter high fat diets in pigs

FAIRFAX, Virginia - According to a new study published by George Mason University researchers Dr. Robin Couch and Dr. Allyson Dailey, in collaboration with researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), showed probiotics may play a pivotal role in preventive medicine.

High fat diets are a leading cause of obesity and can trigger the onset of metabolic syndrome. The research team found that probiotic intervention has significant potential for addressing obesity-related diseases.

Join us on a compelling episode of BioTalk as we sit down with three dynamic leaders from groundbreaking MedTech companies based in the thriving BioHealth Capital Region. These companies, JuneBrain, Xcision Medical Systems, and Sonavi Labs, were recently selected for the prestigious MedTech Innovator Accelerator, the world's largest accelerator of medical technology companies. Discover their innovative solutions and the transformative impact they are making in healthcare.

Galen Robotics, Inc. was the winner of the 2018 BioHealth Capital Region Crab Trap Competition

COLUMBIA, Md. (June 27, 2023) – TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announced a recent $500,000 Seed Funds investment into Galen Robotics, Inc. This round of seed funding is from the Life Sciences Investment Fund.

Bruce Lichorowic, Galen Robotics CEO“In 2017, Galen successfully secured our first MII Phase III grant which led us to make the decision to relocate our headquarters from Silicon Valley to Baltimore. Now, as we receive a follow-up investment, it is evident that TEDCO remains committed to supporting and nurturing its portfolio companies. Despite the macroeconomic challenges associated with early-stage funding, TEDCO has established itself as a leader in investing in high-quality startups based in Maryland. Their dedication to supporting local entrepreneurship is commendable and sets them apart in the startup ecosystem,” said Bruce Lichorowic, president and CEO of Galen Robotics. “TEDCO serves as a valuable resource for Maryland's early-stage technology companies, offering not only funding opportunities but also mentorship, marketing strategies and introductions to key leaders within the government and industry. With these comprehensive support services, TEDCO becomes an indispensable resource that empowers startups to progress and reach the next level of their development.”

GAITHERSBURG, Md., June 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Emergent BioSolutions (NYSE: EBS, “Emergent” or the “Company”) today announced that Robert G. Kramer Sr. has informed the Board of Directors of his intention to retire from Emergent. Mr. Kramer will step down from his role as President and CEO of Emergent and as a member of the Company’s Board, effective immediately. The Board has appointed Haywood Miller as interim CEO while it conducts a search to identify a new permanent CEO, considering both internal and external candidates and with the assistance of a leading executive search firm. Mr. Miller, Managing Director at Berkeley Research Group (“BRG”), has served as an advisor to the Company and its executive management team for the last several months. In order to ensure a smooth transition, Mr. Kramer will serve as an advisor to the Company until August 1, 2023.

As Dr. Kurt Newman, President and CEO of Children’s National Hospital, prepares for retirement, BioHealth Innovation, Inc. (BHI) honors his exceptional contributions and visionary leadership in pediatric health and the BioHealth Capital Region. Since assuming the role of CEO in 2011, Dr. Newman has championed patient-centered care and driven innovation in research, operations, and clinical practices at Children’s National Hospital.

Under his guidance, Children’s National has formed successful partnerships with health systems, government entities, and community organizations, boosting pediatric healthcare forward and benefiting countless children and families. Dr. Newman’s advocacy for expanding mental health access for kids has significantly impacted many. He has led national forums on this critical issue, raising awareness and integrating mental health support within pediatric care.

Maryland company focused on innovating solutions for complex brain surgeries

COLUMBIA, Md. (June 26, 2023) – Jesse Christopher, Longeviti co-founder and CEOTEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announced a $500,000 State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) investment into Longeviti Neuro Solutions, LLC (Longeviti). This SSBCI investment came out of TEDCO’s Venture Funds.

“We saw an opportunity to improve the lives of patients undergoing complex surgeries, and we’re glad we took it,” said Jesse Christopher, Longeviti co-founder and CEO. “Thanks to TEDCO’s investment, we can continue innovating, working towards solutions and helping patients.”

Are you curious to discover how experts navigate the complex landscape of life sciences real estate? Want to stay ahead of the curve in the market today? Ready to learn about the latest talent dynamics in the field?

Join Rich Bendis on BioTalk as he discusses the world of life sciences real estate and market trends with CBRE’s experts, Dan Grimes, Senior VP at CBRE’s Mid-Atlantic Life Sciences practice, and Ian Anderson, Senior Director of Research and Analysis. Together, they discuss the 2023 “US Life Sciences Research Talent Report” and the BioHealth Capital Region’s Top 3 ranking.

Discover how Dan’s expertise in real estate strategies for BioHealth companies and investors shapes success in the industry. Gain valuable insights from Ian’s extensive experience in commercial real estate and capital markets as he guides decision-making in the life sciences, office, and healthcare sectors. They discuss major BioHealth projects, delve into talent dynamics, and analyze market trends.