DC Healthcare Further Expands into Perai, Pulau Pinang with Two New Outlets, and Introduces DC Body

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 29, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – DC Healthcare Holdings Berhad (“DC Healthcare” or the “Group”), an aesthetic medical services provider specialising in the provision of non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures, is pleased to announce the opening of two new outlets: Dr Chong Clinic and DC Body, both located in Perai Pulau Pinang (Auto City). These new establishments underscore the Group’s commitment to expanding its reach and enhancing the accessibility of the Group’s top-tier aesthetic and wellness services.

DC Body located in Perai Pulau Pinang (Auto City)

Dr Chong Clinic – Perai Pulau Pinang (Auto City) continues the Group’s offering of premier aesthetic services, building on the reputation of excellence that DC Healthcare has established. Meanwhile, DC Body – Perai Pulau Pinang (Auto City) represents a new frontier for the Group, focusing on beauty, wellness, and weight management. Developed in collaboration with medical professionals from Dr. Chong Clinic and certified nutritionists, DC Body is set to revolutionise the approach to wellness with the Group’s comprehensive, personalised treatment plans and state-of-the-art technology.

Dr. Chong Tze Sheng, Managing Director of DC Healthcare, shared his excitement about the new outlets, stating, “The opening of Dr Chong Clinic and DC Body in Perai, Pulau Pinang is a landmark moment for us, broadening our horizons in the realms of health and beauty. These outlets embody our commitment to delivering a wide spectrum of services that cater to the diverse needs of our clients. With a unique blend of aesthetic expertise and wellness solutions, we’re set to offer Perai transformative experiences rooted in excellence and innovation. This expansion is more than just growth; it’s a testament to our vision of integrating beauty with well-being, ensuring our clients receive the best care possible.”

He added, “I’m immensely proud of our team for making this vision a reality and eagerly anticipate the positive impact we’ll bring to the Perai community.” The introduction of these new outlets comes at a time when the demand for aesthetic and wellness services is experiencing robust growth. With an emphasis on creating a serene and rejuvenating environment.”

DC Body is poised to become a sanctuary for those seeking to embark on a journey towards a healthier, more vibrant self. The center’s focus on weight management nutrition, body contouring and delivered by a team of dedicated specialists in ensuring a holistic approach to wellness.

As DC Healthcare continues to expand the Group’s geographical footprint, the strategic locations of these new outlets in Perai are expected to play a pivotal role in the Group’s growth trajectory. With an unwavering commitment to innovation and quality, DC Healthcare is well-positioned to lead the charge in the evolving landscape of aesthetic medicine and wellness, promising a brighter, healthier future for its clients.

Dr Chong Clinic located in Perai Pulau Pinang (Auto City)

Dr. Chong Tze Sheng, Managing Director of DC Healthcare

AsiaMedic achieves record revenue of S$23.5 million for FY2023 amid expansion of its medical imaging and aesthetics businesses

· Significant capacity expansion for the Group’s diagnostic imaging and radiology service following the addition of SIGNA™ Hero 3T MRI scanner
· Maiden contribution post-acquisition of LE Private Clinic contributed to the increase in medical aesthetics services revenue
· The Group continues to explore potential opportunities for further expansion following 3rd consecutive year of revenue growth, backed by resilient balance sheet

Financial Highlights	FY2023	FY2022	Change (%)
(S$’000)
Revenue	23,513	18,882	25
Net Profit[1]	1,921	2,186	(12)
EBITDA[2]	3,356	3,433	(2)

Group	31 Dec 2023	31 Dec 2022
Net Assets	13,257	10,941	21
Net Asset Value per share (cents)	1.15	0.98	20

[1] Net profit attributable to owners of the Company
[2] Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation

SINGAPORE, Feb 28, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – SGX Catalist-listed AsiaMedic Limited (the “Company” and together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”) announced its financial results for the financial year ended 31 December 2023 (“FY2023”).

The Group’s FY2023 revenue increased by S$4.6 million or 25% from S$18.9 million for FY2022 to S$23.5 million due to the increase in revenue from the imaging and aesthetic businesses. The Group’s other income also increased by 71% to S$0.7 million due mainly to higher interest income from short- term investments and sub-lease income.

The Group’s EBITDA held steady at S$3.4 million for FY2023.

Mr Arifin Kwek, Chief Executive Officer of AsiaMedic Limited, said, “We are encouraged by the record high revenue achieved for FY2023 following three consecutive years of revenue growth.

The growing referrals from specialist clinics and hospitals reflect the Group’s position as a preferred provider of diagnostic imaging and radiology services. We will continue to invest in the latest technology to enhance the patient experience.”

In September 2023, the Group became the first in Asia Pacific to commence operations of the SIGNA™ Hero 3T MRI scanner which delivers higher image quality with improved efficiency, comfort, and productivity. In February 2024, the Group replaced its CT scanner with a new cutting-edge platform with best-in-class technology.

“Our immediate priorities are to ensure the smooth integration of the Group’s newly acquired medical aesthetics business, strengthening the operations of our primary healthcare services and intensify our collaboration with insurance companies to open new opportunities for the Group’s medical wellness and health screening services,” he added.

FY2023 Income Statement

With the increase in revenue, the Group’s consumables expenses increased by 12% to S$1.7 million, personnel expenses increased by 22% to S$12.2 million, laboratory and consultancy fees increased by 55% to S$3.6 million, and other operating expenses increased by 17% to S$2.8 million.

Depreciation of plant and equipment increased by 232% to S$0.9 million due to equipment purchased in FY2022 and FY2023, as well as depreciation charge with the reversal of impairment for equipment in 2H2022.

Depreciation of right-of-use assets increased due to the depreciation charge with the reversal of impairment of right-of-use assets in 2H2022, and the leasing of new clinic space at Orchard Building.

Finance costs increased by 75% to S$0.4 million due mainly to a higher interest rate applied for the lease modification recognised in 2H2022, the leasing of new clinic space at Orchard Building, and the bank financing obtained for the purchase of the MRI scanner in September 2023.

As a result of the above, the Group registered a net profit of S$1.9 million for FY2023, translating to a net margin of 8.2%.

Financial Position and Cashflow

The Group’s balance sheet remained resilient, with net assets increasing from S$10.9 million as at 31 December 2022 to S$13.3 million as at 31 December 2023.

For FY2023, the Group achieved strong net cash flow from operations of S$3.4 million, more than double compared with S$1.2 million recorded in FY2022 due to the improved performance of the imaging business and a lower working capital requirement in FY2023.

The Group continues to explore potential opportunities for further expansion and long-term growth.

This press release should be read in conjunction with the financial statements announcement for FY2023 uploaded on SGXNet.

For media and analysts’ queries, please contact:
Waterbrooks Consultants
Wayne Koo
T: (65) 9338 8166
E: wayne.koo@waterbrooks.com.sg

About AsiaMedic Limited

AsiaMedic Limited together with its subsidiaries (“AsiaMedic” or the “Group”) is a leading healthcare provider in Singapore which provides holistic solutions through integrated application of the latest medical technologies to prevent and detect early illnesses to achieve positive experiences and clinical outcomes for patients.

The Group is committed to helping clients through practical and personalised solutions delivered with the highest professional standards of service and expertise in a timely, safe and consistent manner. Conveniently located at Orchard Road, AsiaMedic is a preferred one-stop centre for:

· Diagnostic imaging and radiology services
· Medical wellness and health screening services
· Primary healthcare services
· Medical aesthetic services and products

For more information, please visit www.asiamedic.com.sg

LYC Healthcare Reports Strong Q3 FY2024 Results of RM36.0 Million

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 28, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – LYC Healthcare Berhad (“LYC Healthcare” or the “Group”), a leading provider of comprehensive healthcare and specialist in mother and child care services, is pleased to announce the financial results for the third quarter ended 31 December 2023 (“Q3 FY2024”), demonstrating significant revenue growth and an improvement in operational results.

In Q3 FY2024, LYC Healthcare achieved a robust revenue of RM35.9 million, a notable increase from RM23.5 million in the same quarter of the previous year (“Q3 FY2023”). This growth is primarily attributed to the Group’s strategic focus on nutraceutical business and beneficial outcomes from lease modifications. Despite facing industry-wide challenges, LYC Healthcare successfully narrowed Loss Before Tax (“LBT”) to RM1.2 million, down from RM1.8 million in the corresponding quarter of the previous year, underscoring the effectiveness of the Group’s operational and strategic initiatives.

On a regional basis, Malaysia segment continues to contribute significantly to the Group’s performance, generating RM24.0 million in revenue for the quarter, up from RM13.4 million in the previous year’s quarter. The LBT in this segment decreased to RM2.0 million from RM3.2 million, reflecting improved outcomes from the nutraceutical business.

In Singapore, the healthcare operations continued to excel, generating revenue of RM11.9 million and a profit before tax of RM0.8 million. This performance is an improvement in revenue compared to the previous year, although there was a slight decrease in profit before tax from RM1.5 million, attributed to strategic investments in the region’s healthcare sector for future growth plans.

Cumulatively, for the nine months ended 31 December 2023 (“9M FY2024”), LYC Healthcare posted a revenue of RM95.0 million, up from RM66.6 million in the same period last year. The Group’s LBT improved significantly to RM2.9 million from RM6.4 million, driven by contributions from profit guarantee contributions, gains on lease modifications, and robust performance in both the Singapore healthcare businesses and the nutraceutical sector.

On a quarter-on-quarter basis, LYC Healthcare’s revenue increased from RM32.4 million in the preceding quarter to RM35.9 million, with LBT narrowing to RM1.2 million from RM2.0 million, further evidencing the Group’s strong performance momentum.

Mr. Sui Dong Hoe, Managing Director cum Group Chief Executive Officer of LYC Healthcare expressed optimism about the Group’s direction, stating, “The positive trends we are observing in Q3 FY2024 are a clear indication that LYC Healthcare is on the right trajectory towards profitability and sustained growth. Our strategic investments, particularly in T&T Medical Group Pte Ltd (“T&T”) and HC Orthopedic Surgery Pte Ltd (“HCOS”), and operational enhancements are beginning to bear fruit. The full acquisition of T&T and HCOS, coupled with our plans to list these entities under LYC Medicare (Singapore) Pte Ltd on the Catalist board of the Singapore Exchange (“SGX”), showcases our commitment to capitalizing on these opportunities. These steps are pivotal in further strengthening our market position and delivering value to our stakeholders.”

TechInvention Lifecare announces the ground breaking of its state-of-the-art Global Collaborative Centre for Medical Countermeasures

MUMBAI, INDIA, Feb 28, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – In a significant stride towards enhancing global health security and pandemic preparedness, TechInvention Lifecare Pvt. Ltd. is proud to announce the ground breaking of its Global Collaborative Centre for Medical Countermeasures (GCMC) with an investment of approx. USD 15 million. The centre is strategically located close to the upcoming international airport in Navi Mumbai, India.

Prototype - Global Collaborative Centre for Medical Countermeasures (GCMC) — Prototype – Global Collaborative Centre for Medical Countermeasures (GCMC)

GCMC has been acknowledged for its global significance at the 2nd World Local Production Forum in The Hague on 6-8 November 2023, organized by the WHO. The objective of GCMC is well aligned to WHO’s call to action, CEPI’s 100 days mission, India’s National Biotechnology Development Strategy (2020-2025), and other global key initiatives.

This facility will serve the needs of both public and private organizations, such as academic institutes, start-ups, MSMEs, and R&D organizations, to provide a comprehensive ecosystem, facilitating the transition from R&D to GMP-scale production for pre-clinical/clinical batches with required regulatory approvals.

GCMC is a unique eco-friendly centre to cater to crucial medical countermeasures—the entire cycle of vaccine development, from strain to supply, biotherapeutics and diagnostics for both human and veterinary segments, while ensuring sustainable manufacturing. This initiative aligns with the One Health approach, emphasizing the interconnection between human, animal, and environmental health.

Mr. Syed S. Ahmed, Director and CEO of TechInvention, expressed, “The current challenges posed in biologics equity arise from the disparity in translational research dissemination from the centres of excellence to the regional manufacturing ‘hub and spoke’ model setups. We believe that GCMC would be the needed intervention, strengthening the hubs by providing ‘scaled-up’, regulatory-approved, cost-effective, and free of IP infringement biosolutions sourced from both indigenous research and centres of excellence worldwide”.

About TechInvention Lifecare Pvt. Ltd.: https://techinvention.biz/

TechInvention Lifecare Pvt. Ltd. distinguishes itself as a unique Indian biotech company, supporting the ‘One Health’ concept by integrating three pivotal interventions: diagnostics, vaccines, and biotherapeutics, catering to both human and veterinary sectors. Its innovation is dedicated to advancing global health through novel solutions. With a focus on research and development, the company is committed to addressing the health challenges that may emerge in the future.

For further details, please contact:
Mr Sarang Pathak
+91 99606 16481
sarang@techinvention.biz

Avance Clinical CEO Talks with SCRIP about US Biotech Sector “Green Shoots” and a New CRO Report

Adelaide, AU & North Carolina, USA, Feb 28, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – Avance Clinical, the award-winning Australian and North American market-leading CRO for biotechs, has today spoken with SCRIP about their positive outlook for the US biotech sector following the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference and Biotech Showcase meetings. (read the full article here)

Avance Clinical CEO, Yvonne Lungershausen was interviewed by SCRIP Intelligence about the current biotech financial and drug development climate in the US and signs of growth.

Lungershausen noted there was a positive shift in sentiment compared to the previous year, with some companies even announcing their Series A funding during the conference. However, she emphasized that investors remained cautious, demonstrating a low-risk appetite in their investment decisions.

“We’re seeing green shoots in terms of funding coming through now in the US, but I think it’s still a bit of a tough road ahead. Investors are really being super cautious about where they’re investing and relatively, there’s not a high-risk appetite,” Lungershausen said to SCRIP in the interview.

The Avance Clinical team engaged with industry leaders at the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference and Biotech Showcase, sharing insights into the evolving landscape of biotech funding, their strategic partnerships in the AI sector, and ground-breaking developments in oncology study design.

The interview also covered AI saying “Lungershausen indicated that Avance had taken the position of having an innovation and technology group specifically to look at how the CRO can best support clients to get the data that they need for their trials as quickly as possible.

Avance Clinical, she said, is looking at partnerships with companies developing AI and making the assessment of “whether or not that’s something that we should bring in-house and offer to our clients”. It is also keen to work with some of those companies in terms of helping them “understand what the landscape requires”.

According to the interview “Avance’s CEO maintained that Australia also featured “high on the agenda” for a lot of the biopharma companies at JPM “because time is money”.

“That came through over and over again and the ability to start fast with high-quality data that is readily accepted by the US Food and Drug Administration and other regulatory agencies was very important,” she explained.

While a 43.5% rebate on clinical trial costs in Australia provides biopharma clients “a longer runway with their money”, there’s also the exchange rate advantage that typically comes into play.

Importantly, sponsors also don’t require to have an active own-country IND to initiate trials in the island continent. That, Lungershausen stated, is the “biggest advantage” and is possible because Australia has a streamlined and efficient regulatory process.”

According to the interview she said “that amid the generally tight funding environment what also came through strongly…was the need for biotechs to find the right partner”.

SCRIP Intelligence noted that Avance Clinical presented at JPM and Biotech Showcase a new analysis by market research leader, Frost & Sullivan on the biotech sector and the challenges they have finding the right fit or size CRO (See report here).

The analysis has shed light on critical hurdles faced by more than 60% of US biotechs seeking the right CRO partner to propel their drug development programs forward.

SCRIP Intelligence said Lungershausen believes that Avance Clinical “is ideally positioned being able to support biopharma with the advantages of Australia for early phase trials and “start fast but then pivot back to the US very quickly”.

“They’re looking for a partner that can seamlessly help transition them and there’s a lot of excitement about that,” she said.

The comprehensive report underscores the increasing preference of biotechs to collaborate with mid-sized, agile, and responsive CROs with a proven track record of swiftly advancing high-quality clinical programs. The findings suggest that large multinational CROs may be perceived as less responsive and less adept at adapting to the fast-paced nature of biotech demands.

Key insights from the analysis:

1. Challenges in Partner Selection: The analysis reveals that 60 to 65% of US biotechs encounter challenges in identifying the right-sized CRO partner capable of delivering at every phase of their drug development program.

2. Perception of Large Multinational CROs: There is a notable perception among biotechs that large multinational CROs may be less responsive and adaptable to the dynamic requirements of the biotech industry.

3. Biotech Funding Decline: The report highlights challenges faced by biotechs, including a decline in biotech funding, increased drug development complexity, evolving FDA regulatory review processes, and costly delays due to slow patient recruitment.

4. Engagement with Multiple CROs: More than 50% of biotechs engage with more than one CRO during their clinical program, leading to increased costs, delays, and challenges in knowledge and data transfer.

Find out more:

Learn about the GlobalReady model here https://www.avancecro.com/avance-clinical-north-america-operations/

For more information about the benefits of running your next study with Avance Clinical contact us: enquiries@avancecro.com

Media Contact:
Avance Clinical
Kate Thompson
media@avancecro.com

About Avance Clinical

Avance Clinical is the largest premium full-service Australian and North American CRO delivering quality clinical trials, with globally accepted data, in Australia, New Zealand and the US for international biotechs. The company’s clients are biotechs completing Phase I to Phase III of their drug development program that requires fast, agile, and adaptive solution-oriented clinical research services.

Frost & Sullivan Awards
Avance Clinical, a Frost & Sullivan Asia-Pacific CRO Market Leadership Award recipient for the past four years, has been providing CRO services in the region for more than 26 years.

Pre-clinical through to mid to late phase
Avance Clinical offers pre-clinical services with their experienced ClinicReady team right from pre-clinical through to Phase III clinical services leveraging significant Australian Government incentive rebates of up to 43.5% and rapid start-up regulatory processes.

With experience across more than 120 indications, the CRO can deliver world-class results and high-quality internationally accepted data for FDA and EMA review.

Technology
Avance Clinical uses state-of-the-art technology and gold standard systems across all functional areas to provide clients with the most effective processes. Medidata, Oracle, TrialHub, Certinia, Salesforce, Zelta and Medrio are just some of the technology partners.

www.avancecro.com

CGFNS International Unveils New Think Tank to Advance Health Workforce Development Scholarship and Solutions Worldwide

PHILADELPHIA, PA, Feb 24, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – CGFNS International announced today it has established a Global Health Workforce Development Institute. The new think tank will conduct original research and leverage knowledge developed by CGFNS over its half-century of providing credentialing services — as well as its vast experience with workforce mobility issues — to advance scientific knowledge about the evolution of health workforce roles and the development of credentialing and certification programs and policies.

CGFNS International

A long-term objective of the Institute will be to create rigorous global certification programs that streamline the assessment and recognition of practice competency. These will empower nurses and other health professionals around the world to achieve “work-readiness” regardless of where they choose to apply their knowledge and skills, while enabling them to showcase their competencies to employers, regulators, and educators worldwide.

“Amid an unprecedented health workforce crisis, and with an increasing number of health workers being displaced by the impacts of climate change and armed conflict, the patchwork quilt of standards and qualifications between countries threatens to prevent health workers from practicing to their capacities, much less helping to alleviate workforce shortages in high-need countries and improve healthcare access for underserved populations,” said Peter Preziosi, President and CEO of CGFNS.

“This new Institute will be the centerpiece of our effort to address this challenge and ease mobility for health workers to practice where they want and where they are needed,” he added.

Leading the new Institute as its Chief is Julia To Dutka, EdD, a renowned global expert and strategist in credential assessment and global labor mobility who is widely published in the fields of education, regulation, and language teaching and testing. Dr. To Dutka brings to the Institute a unique integration of experience from her many years of service at CGFNS, as well as from higher education and from the assessment industry, where she has led large-scale global assessment initiatives.

The Institute will comprise three centers of excellence:

The Center for Global Assessment and Certification will lead efforts in the setting of global standards and assessment of competencies in the health professions. Its senior director, Joseph McClintock, PhD, has more than 20 years’ experience in all aspects of certification and educational assessment, including test design and creation, item and test development, standards setting and job task analysis. He joins the Institute after serving as vice president of Measurement, Inc., a leading provider of customized educational assessment services.
The Center for Knowledge Management will manage CGFNS International’s extensive international education and health regulatory databases, along with other knowledge assets, with a focus on leveraging the educational and regulatory data to advance initiatives, policies and further research in global health workforce development. Its senior director, Emily Tse, MPhil, is a recognized expert in the credential evaluation field who previously managed the Country Index series on educational systems around the world at the International Education Research Foundation (IERF).
The Center for Global Research and Policy will catalyze a robust research and development agenda and contribute to global human resources for health scholarship through inquiry around global health workforce development, care delivery, and lifelong learning issues. Its senior director, Lauren Herckis, PhD, joins CGFNS from the faculty of Carnegie Mellon University, where she has led interdisciplinary research efforts focused on evidence-based practice for using emerging educational technologies across diverse cultural contexts.

“With our nearly 50-year mission of evaluating nurses and allied health professionals who have chosen to live and work in their country of choice through assessment protocols centering on academic and professional credentials, it is time for CGFNS to recommit itself to improving the health and well-being of the world’s populations,” said To Dutka. “The Institute will enable CGFNS to serve as a thought leader, to advance new and innovative certification systems, and to support models of care delivery that will accelerate health workforce growth and evolution worldwide.”

About CGFNS International, Inc.

Founded in 1977 and based in Philadelphia, CGFNS International is an immigration-neutral not-for-profit organization proudly serving as the world’s largest credentials evaluation organization for the nursing and allied health professions. CGFNS International is an NGO in Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and is a member of the Conference of NGOs in Consultative Relationship with the United Nations (CoNGO).

Contact Information:
David St. John
dstjohn@cgfns.org

SOURCE: CGFNS International

View the original press release on newswire.com.

DC Healthcare Announces Expansion with New Branches in Johor Bahru and Ipoh

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 21, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – DC Healthcare Holdings Berhad (“DC Healthcare” or the “Group”), an aesthetic medical services provider specialising in the provision of non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures, is pleased to announce the openings of the Group’s new branches in Johor Bahru (Taman Molek), and Ipoh (Bandar Seri Botani). These new facilities underscore DC Healthcare’s ongoing commitment to extending reach and making premier aesthetic treatments more accessible across Malaysia.

Equipped with advanced aesthetic technologies and staffed by a team of seasoned professionals, the new branches reflect DC Healthcare’s dedication to excellence and patient-centered care. The introduction of these facilities aligns with the Group’s strategic vision to enhance its service portfolio and fortify the presence within the aesthetic medicine industry.

Dr. Chong Tze Sheng, Managing Director of DC Healthcare, shared his insights on the expansion, “The inauguration of our new branches in Johor Bahru and Ipoh, are key milestones in our journey of growth. These developments not only enhance our service capabilities but also bring us closer to our clients, offering them unparalleled access to top-tier aesthetic solutions. We are excited about the future and remain committed to leading the way in aesthetic medicine in Malaysia and beyond.”

As DC Healthcare continues to navigate the evolving landscape of aesthetic medicine, its strategic initiatives with the branch expansions, position the Group well for sustained success and leadership in the industry.

New T-FINDER Platform Provides Deep Insights Into T Cell Responses Against Novel Cancer Vaccine

HEIDELBERG, Germany, Feb 6, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – BioMed X and the Universitätsmedizin Mannheim announced today the publication of two manuscripts in the field of cancer immunology in the journal Science Advances. The work is based on a collaboration between both institutions and researchers at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), the University of Heidelberg, and the Helmholtz Institute for Translational Oncology (HI-TRON). The main objective of the collaboration was to understand the role of specific T cell responses in a patient with an aggressive subtype of diffuse glioma who showed sustained remission after receiving a neoepitope peptide vaccine at the University Hospital Mannheim.

T cells are critical for maintaining human health by eliminating tumor cells from the body – a process that is driven by the specific interaction of unique receptors on the surface of T cells (T cell receptors or TCRs) to mutant peptides (antigens) on the surface of tumor cells. The identification of such cancer-specific antigens and the TCRs that bind them underlies current efforts to develop targeted cancer therapies. Until now, functionally robust high-throughput approaches to this challenge were lacking.

Dr. John M. Lindner and his research team at the BioMed X Institute in Heidelberg designed the T-FINDER platform to solve this problem. The platform, published now in Science Advances, is capable of rapidly screening thousands of potential interactions between TCRs and antigens on the surface of potential target cells for their ability to activate T cells. Driven by a trio of lead scientists (Miray Cetin, Dr. Veronica Pinamonti, and Dr. Theresa Schmid), the team first generated a highly sensitive reporter cell line for T cell activation. This reporter lies at the heart of T-FINDER, which can sensitively read out the specificity of any number of T cell-activating receptors (for example, CAR-T receptors in addition to classical TCRs) and ligands. For the latter, Dr. Pinamonti provided solutions to key aspects of enabling the detection of class II HLA-presented peptides during her PhD thesis work, leading to the development of novel strategies for boosting antigen processing and presentation by the target cell. This class of ligand was, until now, very challenging to investigate experimentally and together with its superior sensitivity form the foundation of T-FINDER’s advantages in the field.

In a companion manuscript also appearing today, the team collaborated with a research team led by Dr. Ed Green from the Clinical Cooperation Unit Neuroimmunology and Brain Tumor Immunology (Head: Prof. Michael Platten) at DKFZ and University Hospital Mannheim. The researchers applied T-FINDER to decode the immune response of two diffuse midline glioma patients vaccinated against the H3 mutation that was driving their cancer. Patients receiving the H3-vaccine have shown promising but heterogeneous results, and with the aid of T-FINDER, the two groups could precisely map the functional immune response of a patient in remission to TCRs binding HLA class II-presented epitopes of mutant H3. This work provides key insights into the mechanism of anti-tumor T cell responses in these patients and will support ongoing vaccination studies.

“We are excited about the publication of the results of our collaboration with Ed Green, Michael Platten, and colleagues,” said John Lindner, Head of Immunology Discovery at the BioMed X Institute. “Our joint research demonstrated the unique sensitivity, flexibility, and overall performance of our new T-FINDER platform, especially for class II HLA-presented targets, which have always been a challenge in the past.”

“Previously, we have been limited in the tools we could use to study class II-presented epitopes such as mutant H3. The T-FINDER platform has enabled us to identify and benchmark dozens of H3-reactive TCRs, allowing us to track patient responses to vaccination today, as well as benchmark TCRs for the autologous cell therapies of tomorrow,” said Ed Green, Head of the ImmunoGenomics team in Michael Platten’s lab at the DKFZ.

About BioMed X

BioMed X is an independent research institute with sites in Heidelberg, Germany, New Haven, Connecticut, XSeed Labs in Ridgefield, Connecticut, and a worldwide network of partner locations. Together with our partners, we identify big biomedical research challenges and provide creative solutions by combining global crowdsourcing with local incubation of the world’s brightest early-career research talents. Each of the highly diverse research teams at BioMed X has access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure and is continuously guided by experienced mentors from academia and industry. At BioMed X, we combine the best of two worlds – academia and industry – and enable breakthrough innovation by making biomedical research more efficient, more agile, and more fun.

About Universitätsmedizin Mannheim

The Universitätsmedizin Mannheim (UMM) stands for quality-assured maximum care, research and teaching. As one of the largest university medical institutions in the Metropolitan Region Rhine-Neckar, it unites two strong partners – the Medical Faculty Mannheim of the renowned Heidelberg University and the University Hospital Mannheim. Every year, the University Hospital offers a wide range of state-of-the-art diagnostics and treatment procedures to around 45,000 inpatients and day patients as well as 170,000 outpatients. In 30 specialist clinics and institutes, around 5,500 employees are involved in patient care, research and teaching at the hospital and the faculty. The Medical Faculty is a recognized partner of renowned research institutions and is currently training around 1,950 medical students in its successful model programme MaReCuM. The scientific profile is shaped by the four main research focus areas of Vascular Biology and Medicine, Oncology, Translational Neurosciences and Medical Systems Technologies.

Contact Information
Flavia-Bianca Cristian
Recruiting & Communications Manager
fbc@bio.mx
+49 6221 426 11 706

Related Images

SOURCE: BioMed X Institute

View the original press release on newswire.com.

CORRECTION BY SOURCE: Solta Medical’s Thermage(R) FLX and TR-4 Return Pad Receive Registration Certifications in China

LAVAL, QC, Jan 23, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE/TSX:BHC) and Solta Medical, a global leader in the medical aesthetics market, today announced the approval of Thermage® FLX and the TR-4 Return Pad by China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA). [See *Correction above: The TR-4 Return Pad is not approved for use by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration.]

“The approval of Thermage FLX, and the TR-4 return pad, marks a significant milestone for Solta Medical,” Thomas J. Appio, Bausch Health Chief Executive Officer, said. “Not only is this important for growing our business, but it also represents an enormous achievement for our R&D and Regulatory Teams, who worked tirelessly with the NMPA.”

Thermage is a non-invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency technology to help tighten and improve the smoothness and texture of the skin’s surface to optimize a patient’s appearance. Thermage is a versatile and effective treatment that can be used on all skin types and genders, on a wide range of areas on the face, body and around the eyes. Globally, more than two million Thermage treatments have been performed.

“The approval from NMPA means we are able to continue the momentum of the growth of Thermage in China,” Jiny Kim, Senior Vice President, Solta Medical, said. “Building on the legacy of Thermage CPT, which has been serving Chinese institutions and consumers effectively since 2015, we look forward to delivering the Thermage FLX proven technology to the Chinese market.”

Indications

• The radiofrequency energy only delivery components of the Thermage® CPT and FLX system and accessories are indicated for use in:

o Non-invasive treatment of wrinkles around the eyes, including upper and lower eyelids

o Non-invasive treatment of wrinkles

• The simultaneous application of radiofrequency energy and skin vibration by the Thermage® CPT and FLX system and accessories are indicated for use in:

o Non-invasive treatment of wrinkles around the eye

o Non-invasive treatment of wrinkles

o Temporary improvement in the appearance of cellulite

Important Safety Information

Do not undergo Thermage treatment if you have a cardiac pacemaker, a cardioverter, a defibrillator, or any other electrical implant. Let your doctor know if you have an electrical implant or if you have any questions about whether you should undergo a Thermage® treatment.

Solta Medical has not studied the use of the Thermage system:

– Over skin fillers (lips, cheeks, facial wrinkles and skin folds)

– In people who are pregnant and/or breast feeding, diabetic, have an auto-immune disease such as lupus, have cold sores, have genital herpes, or have epilepsy

– In people who have permanent make-up and/or tattoos

– In children

The most commonly reported adverse effect during treatment is mild to moderate pain in the area being treated.

The most commonly reported adverse effects after treatment include the following:

– Mild redness may occur and typically resolves within 24 hours.

– Swelling may occur and typically resolves within 5 days but can remain up to several weeks.

The following adverse effects occur infrequently:

– The procedure may produce heating in the upper layers of the skin, causing burns and subsequent blister and scab formation. There is a possibility of scar formation.

– Skin surface irregularities may appear up to 1 or more months post-treatment.

– Numbness, tingling” or temporary paralysis may occur; typically resolves in a short period of time but may persist up to several weeks.

– Lumps or nodules may occur under the skin primarily in the neck area, and usually resolve within 1 or 2 weeks without chronic or long-term complications.

– Skin may darken, but normally resolves within several months.

Ask your doctor for more information about Thermage FLX and see www.thermage.com for additional details.

About Solta Medical

Solta Medical, a business unit of Bausch Health, is a global leader in the medical aesthetics market. Our vision at Solta is to develop and support trusted aesthetic brands that provide value to our customers and their patients. The Thermage® RF systems, Fraxel® laser, Clear + Brilliant® laser, and VASER® ultrasonic system provide exceptional results for patients and lasting growth to physicians due to our foundation of brands that have stood the test of time. More than five million procedures have been performed with Solta Medical’s portfolio of products around the world. More information can be found at www.solta.com.

About Bausch Health

Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE/TSX:BHC) is a global diversified pharmaceutical company whose mission is to improve people’s lives with our health care products. We develop, manufacture and market a range of products primarily in gastroenterology, hepatology, neurology, dermatology, international pharmaceuticals and eye health, through our controlling ownership interest in Bausch +Lomb. With our leading durable brands, we are delivering on our commitments as we build an innovative company dedicated to advancing global health. For more information, visit http://www.bauschhealth.com and connect with us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Forward-looking Statements

This news release may contain forward-looking statements about the future performance of Bausch Health, which may generally be identified by the use of the words “anticipates,” “hopes,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “may,” “believes,” “subject to” and variations or similar expressions, including statements about the expected results of, and market for, the Company’s Thermage® treatment. These statements are based upon the current expectations and beliefs of management and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Actual results are subject to other risks and uncertainties that relate more broadly to Bausch Health’s overall business, including those more fully described in Bausch Health’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K and detailed from time to time in Bausch Health’s other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the Canadian Securities Administrators, which factors are incorporated herein by reference.

The 2024 TIENS Global Business Launch Conference Provides a Grand Opening

TIANJIN, China, January 18, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – ‘HELLO TIENS, HELLO 2024’, TIENS Global Business Launch Conference was held at the TIENS International Health Industrial Park in Tianjin, China, on January 14.

Mr. Li Jinyuan, Chairman of TIENS Group, delivered the opening keynote, stating that TIENS would cooperate with technology giants such as Microsoft, Amazon, Huawei and Tencent to implement a comprehensive digital transformation. As an essential part of this transformation, the ‘V-Moment’ was released. V-Moment’s ‘intelligent’ education platform has a global footprint and allows distributors to receive professional training anytime, anywhere, regardless of language or region.

Another release was the ‘perfect’ supply chain system, the ‘Flying Lion Supply Chain’, designed to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of the Group’s global business operations. Additionally, as a global multinational enterprise, the TIENS Group launched a global resource-sharing platform, ‘MetaPoint Global Elites Club’, relying on its global advantages to join hands with elites in various fields worldwide to contribute to global sustainable development.

Closing the conference, TIENS Group presented a solemn flag ceremony to encourage all major business divisions to forge ahead in 2024. In the new year, TIENS will continue to uphold its mission of “Healthy Mankind and Serving Society”, actively embrace and master AI technology, and join hands with families worldwide to share a better tomorrow.

Media Contact

Ms Liang, TIENS Group
Email: liangyi1@tiens.com
Website: www.tiens.com

About TIENS Group

TIENS Group was founded in 1992 by Mr Li Jinyuan in Tianjin, China, joining international markets in 1995. During these years of development and self-transcendence, TIENS has become a global enterprise spanning biotechnology, health management, hospitality and tourism, education and training, e-commerce and international trade. With business covering 224 countries and territories and branches established in 117, the Group has achieved global business coverage and has formed strategic alliances with many first-class companies worldwide.

From TIENS International Health Industrial Park, the Group has formed a global health industry network involving a health science and technology innovation system, health production and logistics system, customer support system, health education system, and health investment and financial system, gathering talent flow, logistics, capital flow and information flow. This global industrial chain covers a supply chain, a centralized product procurement system and a global network system with a shared e-commerce platform for its million-level membership and nearly 50 million family users.