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Laminar Pharma Announces first open-label Progression-Free Survival data for LAM561 in combination with standard of Care in First-Line Therapy for Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma MGMT-methylated patients

PALMA DE MALLORCA, Spain, March 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Laminar Pharma, a leader in the development of innovative cancer therapy based on membrane lipid therapy, announced today optimistic results from its ongoing clinical trial evaluating LAM561 for the treatment of newly diagnosed glioblastoma (ndGBM), the most aggressive form of brain cancer, that has seen limited clinical improvement in the last 20 years. The trial, partially funded with an EU H2020 Grant (ClinGlio), has shown an improvement trend in progression-free survival (PFS) in MGMT-methylated patients receiving LAM561 in combination with chemoradiotherapy (radiotherapy plus temozolomide) as the standard of care (SoC) compared to placebo plus SoC treatment. LAM561 is available for in-license for all territories. Laminar’s current fund raising round is still open, for a limited time, to additional investors.

The pivotal phase 2b/3 trial, “A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled adjuvant trial in newly diagnosed primary glioblastoma subjects to assess the efficacy and safety of LAM561 in combination with radiotherapy and temozolomide standard of care treatment” (NCT04250922), enrolled 144 patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma. In November 2024, After reaching 66 PFS events the independent data monitoring committee (IDMC) recommended: (1) Continue the trial without modifications until 90 OS events (overall survival), when the final analysis will be carried out, estimated for Q4 2026; (2) that the trial should not be stopped for reasons of safety or futility and (3) opening the study, that is, removing the blind. From that moment, patients, doctors and Laminar as sponsor are able to know if any patient received placebo or LAM561.

Although the main primary outcome of the interim analysis (Hazard Ratio of 0.5 for PFS) was not reached for the whole trial population, the unblinding of the trial has allowed Laminar to conduct an ongoing evaluation (non-statistically assessed and with data under monitoring review) considering the per protocol predefined stratification: methylation status of the MGMT promoter and RTOG score (3, 4 or 5), a scale describing the side effects caused by radiation therapy and the higher the RTOG score the worse the clinical position. By revising the data stratified by MGMT promoter methylation status and RTOG, and using data available on 18th February 2025, the median PFS for methylated patients RTOG3 was 56,7 weeks on the LAM561 treatment arm against 19 weeks on the placebo arm (n=9). Moreover, the median PFS for methylated patients RTOG4 was 86,4 weeks on the LAM561 treatment arm against 54,7 weeks on the placebo arm (n=39). With currently available data, methylated patients treated with LAM561 + SoC seem to experience a potentially clinically relevantimprovement in PFS (Hazard-ratio estimation of 0.53) compared to control group (placebo+SoC). PFS was not improved by LAM561 in unmethylated patients. This interim perspective should be taken with caution since the study is still ongoing and providing new information and the final interpretation will only be apparent once the study has completed after reaching 90 OS events; and, although progression of the disease is a relevant clinical event, overall survival is the primary outcome of the trial and conclusions on the final effect of the drug need to wait until the  final analysis is performed and data is reviewed by the IDMC. Laminar intends to perform an in-depth independent objective assessment of the findings.

The methylation status of the MGMT promoter is highly relevant in the prognosis of glioblastoma [Leske et al., 2023]. MGMT-methylated patients represent 35-50% of the total glioblastoma patients.

“We are encouraged by the progression-free survival results from this trial in MGMT-methylated patients, which, if reflected by positive overall survival results, may represent a significant advance in the treatment of glioblastoma, a condition with poor prognosis that affects more than 100,000 people every year”, said Dr. Pablo Escribà, CEO of Laminar Pharma. “Glioblastoma remains one of the most challenging cancers to treat, and these findings highlight the potential of LAM561 to improve outcomes for methylated patients, a considerable portion of the total glioblastoma population. Our team is committed to continuing the development of this promising therapy.”

The combination of LAM561 and SoC was well-tolerated. The safety data in the trial is consistent with the known safety profile of LAM561 studied in previous clinical trials, with no new safety signals observed in the combination arm.

Trial Details and Key Findings:

  • The study enrolled 144 patients with newly diagnosed, IDH-wildtype, glioblastoma.
  • MGMT-methylated patients treated with LAM561 and SoC currently show a trend towards longer progression-free survival (86,4 weeks) compared to placebo control SoC group (54,7 weeks, HR 0.53). The study will continue until 90 OS events when final analysis will be conducted, estimated by late 2026.
  • Safety data showed that the treatment was well-tolerated, with adverse events consistent with previous trials and a well-known safety profile.

These results built on earlier preclinical and clinical data, which indicated that LAM561 could effectively target, through modification of the membrane lipid, the molecular pathways associated with glioblastoma growth. Further analysis and longer follow-up periods are underway to assess overall survival and other secondary endpoints.

About Glioblastoma: Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary malignant brain tumor and accounts for nearly 50 percent of all gliomas and approximately 25 percent of all primary brain and CNS malignant tumors. The incidence of GBM in Europe is currently above 25,000 new cases each year, rising to over 100,000 cases per year worldwide. The prognosis for GBM patients is very poor, with a median survival time of about 14.5 months despite optimum chemo-radiation treatment. About 15% of patients survive two years after diagnosis and ca. 4% survive for five or more years. In this scenario, there is a desperate need for novel treatment alternatives that provide safe and more efficacious clinical outcomes.

About LAM561: LAM561 (2-hydroxyoleic acid (2-OHOA); idroxioleic acid, sodium) is a synthetic derivative of oleic acid and the most advanced Laminar’s R&D product which is taken orally. This drug alters the composition of the plasma membrane in cancer cells, reducing the activity of membrane-associated signaling proteins that are known to promote tumor growth and affecting tumors in the brain. LAM561 is in the process of completing its last clinical development phase and has shown promising preliminary clinical activity in the treatment of aggressive brain tumors, glioblastoma.

About Laminar Pharma: Laminar Pharmaceuticals S.A. (Laminar) is a Spanish biotechnological company created in 2006, committed to translational health research, for the rational design and development of drugs to treat oncological and other pathologies in the form of synthetic fatty acids considered “First-in-class Health Solutions” and based on a novel technology, the Melitherapy (MLT or Membrane Lipid Therapy). Laminar controls all the processes, from the rational design of the molecules to the clinical trials that lead to the launch of a new drug, with constant investment in R&D and high-quality standards. It is currently headquartered in Mallorca (Spain) with a subsidiary in Massachusetts (USA).

The development and commercialization of medicines involves a high degree of risk, and only a small number of research and development programs result in the commercialization of a product. This document contains forward-looking statements. These statements do not relate strictly to historical or current facts and may be accompanied by words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “conceivably” , “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “may”, “potential,” “possible,” “will,” and other words of similar meaning. The results of clinical trials may not be indicative of the full results or the results of later-stage clinical trials and do not guarantee regulatory approval.

Media Contact: 
Javier Fernández Díaz
j.fernandez@laminarpharma.com

References:

Leske, H., Camenisch Gross, U., Hofer, S., Neidert, M. C., Leske, S., Weller, M., … & Rushing, E. J. (2023). MGMT methylation pattern of long-term and short-term survivors of glioblastoma reveals CpGs of the enhancer region to be of high prognostic value. Acta Neuropathologica Communications, 11(1), 139

Ascend Advanced Therapies Appoints John Chiminski as Chair and Karen Flynn as Independent Director

ROCKVILLE, Md., March 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ascend Advanced Therapies (Ascend), a gene to GMP advanced therapy development partner, today announced the appointment of John Chiminski and Karen Flynn as non-executive members of its Board of Directors. John will serve as Chair of the Board and EW Healthcare Partners has designated Karen to serve on the Company’s board as one of its representatives. Their leadership and deep industry expertise will be pivotal as Ascend builds its capabilities and positions itself for growth.

 

 

John Chiminski brings more than three decades of leadership in healthcare and pharma services. He served as CEO of Catalent from 2009 to 2015, then as Chair and CEO from 2016 through 2022, and as Executive Chair until June 2023. Under his leadership, Catalent grew into a global Tier 1 CDMO, expanded its capabilities, and significantly increased its impact on the pharma and biotech development and manufacturing ecosystem. He currently serves as a board member for QuidelOrtho (QDEL) and is a Senior Advisor for Abingworth.

“Ascend is at a pivotal moment in its growth, and I am excited to support the team as we build a world-class gene therapy CDMO,” said Chiminski. “With the right strategy, investment, and operational excellence, Ascend is well-positioned to be a leading partner in advanced therapies.”

Karen Flynn brings more than three decades of commercial and operations experience to the board of Ascend. Most recently, she served as Interim President of BioModalities at Catalent. Preceding this role, Karen held positions as Chief Commercial Officer and President of Biologics at Catalent. Prior to her tenure at Catalent, she served as Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer for West Pharmaceutical Services, also assuming the role of President of its Pharmaceutical Packaging Systems business. She currently serves on the boards of Quanterix Corporation (QTRX), Sotera Health Company (SHC), Stevanato Group, and Germfree Laboratories, a portfolio company of EW Healthcare Partners.

“With the addition of ABL, Inc. in late 2024 and investment by EW Healthcare Partners, the Ascend network can support gene therapy, oncolytic, vaccine, immunotherapy, and government customers at all stages of development through to fill/finish,” said Flynn. “Process development, optimization, and forthcoming GMP QC capabilities in Munich, Germany are complemented by the GMP facilities in Alachua, Florida, and the company’s headquarters in Rockville, MD. This is a world-class offering built to support customers long term.”

“We are excited to welcome John and Karen to the board. John and Karen bring tremendous leadership, strategic expertise, and industry knowledge that will help shape the future here,” said Mike Stella, CEO of Ascend. “Their counsel and extensive experience will be instrumental as we continue to manufacture advanced therapies and aggressively scale up the capabilities of the Company.”

Ascend specializes in high-quality, cost-effective gene therapy development and manufacturing. Following the partnership with EW healthcare Partners that contributed its portfolio company, ABL, Inc. in late 2024, Ascend offers expanded commercial manufacturing, process development, and analytical capabilities across multiple facilities in the U.S. and Europe.

To join us on the Ascend journey, please visit: www.ascend-adv.com or follow us on LinkedIn. To schedule some time to chat, email us at business@ascend-adv.com.

Ascend Advanced Therapies (Ascend) is a gene to GMP contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) specializing in high-quality, cost-effective advanced therapy development and manufacturing. The Company offers expanded commercial facilities and a versatile platform for gene therapies, oncolytics, vaccines and immunotherapies. A collaborative CMC approach backed by therapeutic development roots helps the team guide clients from clinic to commercialization while balancing yield, quality, and cost. Investors include EW Healthcare Partners, Monograph, Abingworth, Petrichor, DCVC Bio, 4BIO Capital, Cathay Health, Anjinomoto, Deerfield, and Digitalis Ventures. Learn more at www.ascend-adv.com.

 

Beyond Music Acquires Copyright Stake in BTS Hit Song “Butter”

SEOUL, South Korea, March 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Beyond Music, Asia’s leading music intellectual properties (IPs) investment and data management company, has acquired a copyright stake in “Butter,” the global hit song by BTS. This deal was successfully made thanks to the support of Stephen Kirk, one of the songwriters of this song. With this new acquisition, the company has further cemented its presence in the global music IP market by adding one of K-pop’s most iconic tracks to its catalog.

Beyond Music
Beyond Music

“Butter” is one of BTS’s signature tracks and a defining global K-pop anthem. Upon its release in May 2021, the song set multiple records, including ‘The highest number of YouTube views within 24 hours’, ‘The most-streamed song in a single day on Spotify globally, earning a Guinness World Record’, and ‘Entry into Spotify’s prestigious “Billions Club,” underscoring its lasting streaming mega-success and global impact’.

Jinwoo Jo, CEO of Beyond Music, said, “Acquiring a copyright stake in BTS’s global hit ‘Butter’ is a major step forward in our music IP investment and value-up strategy. We will continue to expand our presence in the global market through strategic acquisitions, portfolio diversification, and innovative monetization strategies, securing sustainable growth for years to come.”

This acquisition marks a significant milestone in Beyond Music’s global expansion and its ongoing mission to enhance the value of music IP. It also represents the beginning of a broader initiative to honor and extend the musical legacies of Stephen Kirk and other world-renowned songwriters.

By securing a stake in “Butter,” Beyond Music continues to strengthen its presence in the global music IP landscape, ensuring that both artistic integrity and sustainable investor returns remain at the core of its strategy.

Beyond Music’s first major acquisition took place in 2022 with the catalog of notable Canadian GRAMMY-winning producer/songwriter Greg Wells. In 2024, the company also acquired the music catalog of internationally renowned Latin GRAMMY Award-winner, singer and songwriter Yandel including his publishing interests and royalties, his share of performance royalties and neighboring rights royalties.

Since its establishment in 2021, Beyond Music has consistently enhanced the value of music IP through optimized licensing and value-up strategies based on proprietary data analysis systems. To date, the company has closed over 100 large-scale music IP acquisitions both domestically and internationally, amassing a catalog of more than 35,000 copyrights including publishing and master rights, spanning from the 1990s to the present.

KOCCA Brings the Future of Entertainment to SXSW 2025 – AI, XR, and K-Content Innovation Take Center Stage

AUSTIN, Texas, March 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — At SXSW 2025, the Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA) is set to showcase the next frontier of entertainment and technology, bringing 12 cutting-edge Korean companies to Austin. From AI-powered media to immersive experiences in XR and the metaverse, KOCCA Pavilion will be the hub for the latest innovations reshaping global content trends.

KOCCA Brings the Future of Entertainment to SXSW 2025 – AI, XR, and K-Content Innovation Take Center Stage
KOCCA Brings the Future of Entertainment to SXSW 2025 – AI, XR, and K-Content Innovation Take Center Stage

KOCCA will host three major events at SXSW 2025:

KOCCA Pavilion (March 9-12, Booth No. 1007, Austin Convention Center, Hall 3) – Experience firsthand how AI, virtual humans, immersive art, and game-tech are redefining storytelling and audience engagement.

KOCCA NEXT STAGE (March 10, 10 AM, Hall 4) – Industry leaders discuss the convergence of AI and entertainment, the rise of digital humans, and the future of interactive storytelling.

K-Content Night (March 10, 6-9 PM, Parlor & Yard, Downtown Austin) – An exclusive networking event where investors, creators, and tech pioneers connect over K-content’s impact on the global entertainment landscape.

Meet the Innovators at KOCCA Pavilion
Twelve visionary companies will present game-changing solutions in AI-driven media, metaverse experiences, immersive art, and next-gen music & gaming solutions. These companies include DATUMO, BRUSH Theatre, BEAM Studio, ShiningLab, Cuz Global, KAI, Minimap, GiiOii Immersive Studio, apoc, Stela, Neutune, and Gaudio Lab.

Visitors can expect to engage with groundbreaking advancements such as AI-generated storytelling, virtual human interactions, and next-gen music tech that is redefining how audiences consume content worldwide.

KOCCA NEXT STAGE – The Future of AI in Entertainment (March 10, 10 AM, Hall 4)
Beyond the exhibition, KOCCA will host NEXT STAGE, a must-attend panel exploring how AI, XR, and emerging tech are revolutionizing content creation and audience experiences. Featuring industry experts Michael Hwang (DATUMO), Youngbeom Jeong (BEAM Studio), Ellie Lee (apoc), and Sylvia Yang (BRUSH Theatre), this session will dive into the challenges and opportunities of integrating AI in storytelling and the lessons global industries can learn from Korea’s rapid innovation.

K-Content Night – Where Business Meets Creativity (March 10, 6-9 PM, Parlor & Yard, Austin)
KOCCA’s K-Content Night is an exclusive gathering that brings together investors, startups, and industry leaders to explore how Korean content is shaping the next wave of entertainment. Attendees will enjoy a high-impact networking session, speed pitches from innovative startups, and exclusive insights into one of the fastest-growing creative industries in the world.

This is more than just a networking event—it’s an opportunity to connect with visionaries redefining the future of media and entertainment.

Register Now:

KOCCA Pavilion: https://m.site.naver.com/1BCHG

KOCCA NEXT STAGE: https://forms.gle/ZGedEyUEAjxKsH4X8

K-Content Night: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/k-content-night-2025-sxsw-free-dinner-drinks-tickets-1238084777899?aff=oddtdtcreator

Join KOCCA at SXSW 2025 and witness the future of entertainment unfold.

 

HOT GIRL WALK IN STYLE: HALARA BRINGS “MADE FOR WHAT MOVES YOU” TO LIFE IN AUSTIN

AUSTIN, Texas, March 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Halara, a viral athleisure brand, is stepping off the screen and into the real world with an exclusive, RSVP-only brand experience in partnership with Hot Girl Walk in Austin. This female empowering event will take place on March 15 and features a scenic walk through one of Austin’s most picturesque trails.

Halara empowers women to embrace life with joy, authenticity and confidence. Hot Girl Walk x Halara aims to foster connection through well-being and self-expression, encouraging people to build community through a shared love of movement and style.

The Dress That Does It All—So You Can Too

Halara is redefining athleisure with its signature Active Dress, a viral TikTok sensation that introduced millions to the brand. Designed for effortless movement, ultimate comfort, and a multitude of styles and colors, this one-and-done staple moves with you—whether you’re power walking through the city, hitting the gym, or heading to brunch.

What started as a viral moment has become a must-have in every activewear wardrobe. Halara is continuously evolving its Active Dress Collection with new styles, fresh colorways, and innovative fabric technology. This year, embracing movement while expressing personal style.

A Stylish Giveaway & Exclusive Gifts

To celebrate this exciting collaboration, the first 50 guests who RSVP will receive a complimentary Halara Active Dress. Attendees will also be able to win exclusive gifts while enjoying a community-driven experience with like-minded women.

Halara Active Dress
Halara Active Dress

Join Us for the Ultimate Hot Girl Walk Experience! 

Click Link for Details
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hot-girl-walk-x-halara-austin-tx-tickets-1248595355319?aff=oddtdtcreator

“Throw on your favorite activewear, grab your besties, and walk, talk, and slay with us! Expect good vibes, great company, beautiful views, and lots of fun. This is a FREE event, but all must be registered to attend. Don’t miss out!”

Tag us @Halara_Official & @HotGirlWalk and share the moment!

About Halara

Halara is a leading athleisure brand that blends stylish design with innovative fabrics for comfortable, versatile activewear that performs. Halara empowers confidence with styles that are made for what moves you from the studio to the streets. Committed to affordability, inclusivity, and high-quality materials, Halara continues to redefine athleisure to support every wellness goal. Learn more www.halara.com or follow us on Instagram @halara_official.

About Hot Girl Walk

Hot Girl Walk (HGW) is a global fitness phenomenon that encourages women to go on walks while focusing on Gratitude, Goals, and Confidence. Walking is a low-impact exercise with a low-barrier of entry, and offering a plethora of benefits including heart health, weight management, and mental health.  Millions of people go on a Hot Girl Walk daily and share their routines on social media. The Hot Girl Walk was created in 2020 by Mia Lind, a senior at the University of Southern California at the time. Since then, Lind has expanded the brand, hosting free Hot Girl Walk community events with thousands of attendees all over the world. Hot Girl Walk hosts monthly events in Los Angeles, New York, Miami, and London, with the support of Hot Girl Walk Ambassadors. Mia and her ambassadors have also hosted events in Boston, Las Vegas, Austin, Nashville, Australia, and many more locations.

You can find out more about Hot Girl Walk by visiting www.hotgirlwalk.com or @hotgirlwalk on Instagram.

Hot Girl Walk and HGW are registered trademarks of Hot Girl Walk LLC, all rights reserved.

Yanolja Collaborates with OpenAI to Accelerate AI Adoption in the Global Travel Industry

Yanolja participating in travel vertical for the global launch of OpenAI’s agent “Operator” research preview

By working together with global leaders in AI solutions, Yanolja aims to deliver hyper-personalized experiences to global users throughout their entire travel journey

NEW YORK, March 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Yanolja, a global travel technology company, announced its participation in Open AI’s global launch of its Operator research preview. This announcement marks another major step forward in Yanolja’s mission to revolutionize the global travel industry with travel-specific generative AI services based on its own proprietary data and infrastructure.

Operator is an AI agent developed by OpenAI that can go to the web to perform tasks such as inputting, clicking, and scrolling, managing travel bookings and online shopping in a web browser. Operator helps users complete travel bookings and shop online within a browser, and is able to click, scroll and type on its own. 

Initially launched in the U.S. in January, Operator’s research preview has now expanded to more global markets. Yanolja plans to support the enhancement of its services with insights gained from travel-related cases collected during the research preview phase.

“Through our extensive data related to travel, our generative AI can deliver hyper-personalized experiences throughout every stage of a user’s travel journey, enhancing satisfaction and loyalty,” said Jeff Kim, CEO at Yanolja Cloud. “Additionally, our AI technology will streamline customer service and automate operational processes for travel enterprises, leading to increased efficiency and convenience. We’re committed to accelerating the era of fully automated, personal and AI-driven total travel services, and look forward to our collaboration with OpenAI on enhancing the future of travel.”

Yanolja has been rapidly advancing the development of its AI capabilities. From the initial planning stages, it helps users automatically generate travel itineraries tailored to individual preferences and match the real-time inventory data such as room availability or dynamic price. During the trip, its AI services offer conveniences such as auto check-in/check-out with cloud-based kiosks, AI concierge services, and local restaurant recommendations, etc.

As one of the fastest-growing global travel technology companies, Yanolja has achieved remarkable growth, reaching total transaction volume of $19.8 billion in 2024 with 186% growth rate, while operating in 206 countries and connecting 1.33 million hotels with over 20,000 travel sales channels like online booking platforms or tour operators. This reflects its expanding global footprint and technological leadership.

Through collaborations with global AI leaders, Yanolja continues to drive digital transformation in travel, shaping the future of automated and intelligent travel experiences for both users and travel enterprises worldwide.

About Yanolja

Yanolja co., Ltd. is a leading global travel technology company leveraging AI to transform the travel industry for both travelers and travel enterprises. Built on the vision to create technology that connects people to their unique travel dreams, Yanolja delivers personalized travel experiences for travelers and uncovers operational efficiencies for travel enterprises through its innovative technology solutions and proprietary data infrastructure. Operating in more than 200 countries worldwide, Yanolja provides integrated transaction, subscription and data solutions that are redefining the future of travel and hospitality. Follow us on LinkedIn and visit our website to learn more.

Media Contact
Christina Kim
Corporate Public Relations Manager
(206) 245-7392
christina.kim@yanolja.com 

Newly-formed Archerfish Precision Diagnostics Pte Ltd: Ushers a New Era in Advanced Diagnostics

SINGAPORE, March 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In a significant development for the clinical diagnostics landscape in Singapore, Angsana Molecular & Diagnostics Laboratory (Angsana) and Pathnova Laboratories (Pathnova) have announced their merger to form Archerfish Precision Diagnostics Private Limited (Archerfish). This strategic union brings together two leading laboratory players with complementary expertise – Angsana in molecular diagnostics and Pathnova in serology and AI – This merger positions Archerfish as a powerhouse in advanced diagnostic solutions.

In picture: From left: Dr Ian Cheong, Mr Peter Chia, Dr Chris Tan, Mr Kevin Lee
In picture: From left: Dr Ian Cheong, Mr Peter Chia, Dr Chris Tan, Mr Kevin Lee

The merger seeks to combine the unique strengths of both laboratories, expanding their capabilities beyond their current portfolio to offer a comprehensive range of advanced diagnostic assays.

Angsana is a pioneer in the field of molecular oncology in Asia, having introduced clinical Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) early on. They have a strong track record of successful commercialisation and bringing clinical diagnostics tests to the market. Pathnova specialises in the development and manufacturing of diagnostic products, including the creation of intellectual property related to novel diagnostic technologies, exemplified by their proprietary early screening test for nasopharyngeal cancer. Both labs are focused on diseases prevalent in Asia.

Archerfish will cater to both the private and public healthcare sectors, enhancing access to innovative and accurate diagnostic services.

Advancing Diagnostic Innovation

Archerfish’s vision is to be at the forefront of diagnostic innovation, providing accurate, timely, and comprehensive solutions for early cancer screening, as well as precision diagnostics guiding treatments for cancer and other diseases.

By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and pioneering research, the company is expanding its portfolio of diagnostic tests to drive innovation in clinical practice.

Next-Generation Sequencing

One key area of development is advancing Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) beyond personalised cancer care to other areas including infectious disease detection. For instance, metagenomic NGS (mNGS) enables the comprehensive identification of microorganisms, offering the potential to detect a wide range of viral and bacterial infections from a single plasma sample within a clinically actionable timeframe.

Data-Driven Disease Detection

In addition, the company is developing data-driven approaches to disease detection through serum proteomics and serological profiling. Advances in aptamer technology now allow for the profiling of thousands of proteins in serum, providing a versatile and powerful tool for diverse diagnostic applications.

Artificial Intelligence

To maximize the potential of these data-driven methods, Archerfish is integrating artificial intelligence to refine pattern analysis, improving disease detection and predictive accuracy. Through these innovations, the company remains committed to transforming diagnostics and enhancing patient outcomes.

The above contains forward-looking statements that are subjected to further technology and market research.

Strategic Leadership and Investment

Archerfish’s management team comprises leading clinicians, scientists and accomplished healthcare executives, providing the vision and leadership necessary for the company’s growth. Their combined expertise in diagnostics, research, and business strategy aims to keep Archerfish at the industry’s forefront in Asia.

The merger is backed by a consortium of strategic investors including Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, The Life Sciences Innovation Fund, Temasek Life Sciences Accelerator and SEEDS Capital, which fund and support research and innovation. With such backing, Archerfish is well positioned to achieve its ambitious goals.

Collaborative Efforts and Future Plans

The formation of Archerfish is expected to facilitate greater collaboration in public-private partnerships, contributing to healthcare cost efficiency through economies of scale. By working closely with government agencies and healthcare providers, Archerfish aims to improve access to high-quality diagnostic services.

Archerfish is seeking to raise at least SGD$50 million over the next three years to support its expansion plans. This funding will be used to further develop and commercialise its innovative diagnostic solutions as well as regional expansion.

 “This merger represents a significant step forward in our mission to advance diagnostic science and improve patient outcomes,” said Dr. Lim Cheok Peng, Chairman of Archerfish Precision Diagnostics, Founder of Angsana Molecular & Diagnostics Laboratory

“Archerfish will address a critical gap in Singapore’s clinical laboratory landscape, seamlessly translating scientific evidence into practical, high-quality clinical laboratory solutions,” added Dr. Ian Cheong, Director of Archerfish Precision Diagnostics and Co-founder of PathNova Laboratories.

“The merger of these two laboratories fosters a dynamic synergy, uniting expertise and resources to drive groundbreaking innovation and create a greater positive impact on society,” said Mr Peter Chia, CEO of Temasek Lifesciences Laboratory.

About Archerfish Precision Diagnostics

Archerfish Precision Diagnostics Private Limited is a leading molecular diagnostics company dedicated to innovative solutions for cancer detection and treatment. Formed through the merger of Angsana Molecular & Diagnostics Laboratory and Pathnova Laboratories, both CAP-accredited laboratories, Archerfish combines excellence in clinical laboratory practice with a strong commitment to research and development.

Contact Information

Angeline Wong
Senior Strategic Development Manager
Angeline.wong@archerfishdx.com 

For more information, please visit our website: www.archerfishdx.com

2025 Call for Code Engages Developers to Build AI Solutions that Address Social and Humanitarian Issues

In its eighth year, Call for Code presents a series of SDG-focused hackathons throughout the year, kicking off with a competition to build AI agents

BOULDER, Colo., March 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Call for Code Creator David Clark Cause, Founding Partner IBM (NYSE: IBM), Global Impact Partner United Nations Human Rights, and Program Affiliate the Linux Foundation invite developers and problem solvers to participate in the 2025 Call for Code program to create projects and solutions that use AI to help tackle United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

IBM Corporation logo.
IBM Corporation logo.

Since its launch in 2018, Call for Code has rallied developers globally to come together and create innovative solutions to help solve the world’s largest problems with technology. In 2025, the Call for Code Global Challenge will again ask how AI can address humanitarian issues to make a real difference for communities around the world.

“Call for Code is a unique global tech initiative, that inspires and empowers developers and problem-solvers from around the world to use their talent to innovate for social good,” said David Clark, Founder and CEO of Call for Code. “I am immensely proud that Call for Code, alongside its founding partner IBM, and with UN Human Rights, has helped ensure that technology serves as a catalyst for sustainability, climate and humanitarian action.”

This year, participants will have the opportunity to take part in five qualifying hackathon events as part of the year-long Call for Code Global Challenge in collaboration with IBM’s TechXchange Client Advocacy team. For each event, teams will build an original proof-of-concept solution based on a different SDG with technologies like watsonx, IBM’s portfolio of AI products, and IBM Cloud services. Each hackathon will include a different theme linked to one of the 17 SDGs.

The first qualifying hackathon will be held March 20 through March 31, 2025. In honor of UN World Water Day on March 22, it calls on participants to build a proof-of-concept for an AI virtual agent using watsonx.ai that can be put to work to address an issue that falls under the SDG6: Clean Water and Sanitation. In addition, Call for Code will host a hackathon to tackle SDG 13: Climate Action as part of the 2025 Right Here, Right Now Global Climate Summit, the world’s largest human rights-based climate forum, hosted by UN Human Rights, the University of Oxford, and co-hosted by leading universities worldwide.

“From the very beginning, UN Human Rights has been honored to support Call for Code, recognizing that technology—when grounded in human rights—can be a powerful force for good,” said Ansar Mahfoudh, head of the Innovation and Analytics Hub at UN Human Rights. “Since helping launch this groundbreaking initiative almost a decade ago, we have supported those projects that champion innovation that serves humanity. We remain committed to ensuring Call for Code grows from strength to strength, by drawing on a community of socially-minded coders who place humans at the centre of tech and innovation solutions.”

“Call for Code is a unique opportunity to get hands-on with AI, build new skills, network with a community of like-minded problem solvers, and create solutions,” said Dinesh Nirmal, IBM Senior Vice President, IBM Software. “This year, there’s no-cost access to industry leading, enterprise-grade IBM software like watsonx.ai for participants. I am excited to see what teams build to make a positive difference.”

Teams, made up of one to five developers, can compete for prizes awarded in each hackathon. The top Call for Code solution from each qualifying hackathon will win $5,000 USD and one conference pass per team member to the IBM TechXchange Conference 2025 in Orlando. This is IBM’s biggest technical learning conference of the year (official rules apply, tickets are non-transferable, and travel and lodging are not included). The qualifying teams will also have the chance to advance to compete for the 2025 Call for Code Global Challenge Grand Prizes, including a top cash prize of $50,000 USD. Top teams will also have the opportunity for open-source project support from the Linux Foundation. Grand prize winners will be announced in December.

Interested participants can register here before March 18, 2025 for the first hackathon, which runs from March 20 to 31, 2025. More details about each Call for Code qualifying hackathon will be shared on the Call for Code website as the year progresses.

About Call for Code Global Challenge
Developers have revolutionized the way people live and interact with virtually everyone and everything. Where most people see challenges, developers see possibilities. That’s why David Clark, the CEO of David Clark Cause, created Call for Code in 2018, and launched it alongside Founding Partner IBM and Global Impact Partner United Nations Human Rights. In 2022 Call for Code was selected as the preferred innovation platform for the Right Here, Right Now Global Climate Alliance, the largest public/private initiative in the world promoting climate justice.

Contact:
Laura Gallardo
Laura.Gallardo1@ibm.com