Israel Active

Scientists at Israel’s Technion Institute have studied how RNA creates genes that make proteins. One process utilizes an enzyme called ADAR, which sometimes creates a genetic mutation that leads to cancer or brain disease. The discovery could result in a gene repair process and disease eradication.

Israel’s Biolojic Design (see previously) is joining the Johnson & Johnson Innovation – JLABS (JLABS) to develop therapeutic antibodies at its Washington, D.C. site. JLABS is one of the largest global networks of incubators pioneering groundbreaking healthcare solutions.

Israel’s Momentis Surgical (see previously) now has US FDA approval for its 2nd-generation Anovo® robotic surgical platform. The new version has haptic feedback, allowing the surgeon to “feel” what he is doing. Also, new video and annotation features help communication and training.

Israel’s Polyrizon is developing innovative medical device hydrogels delivered in the form of nasal sprays. These can trap incoming pathogens to protect individuals, but also deliver medicines efficiently into the bloodstream to treat disease. Polyrizon has raised $4.2 million on NASDAQ.

United Hatzalah, Israel’s leading volunteer emergency response organization, reported that it had recruited 1,000 new volunteers this year, bringing its total to 8,000. President and founder, Eli Beer, said “it is inspiring to see how so many people from all walks of life come together to selflessly save lives.”

The Dangoor Health-Tech Academy is a partnership between the UK-Israel Tech Hub and the Dangoor Foundation. It will select 8 Israeli startups for each 8-week cohort beginning in January. The first cohort will focus on AI or automation to revolutionize the NHS and UK healthcare system.

Tel Aviv University scientists previously discovered a link between mutations in the Shank3 gene and autism (see ). They recently identified the brain mechanisms involved and inserted DNA that regenerated normal Shank3 protein and restored brain function. It could lead to new treatments.

Israel’s Pulsimore has renewed and expanded its strategic partnership with Israel’s Clalit Health Services (see previously). Over the next five years, Pulsenmore will supply 25,000 units of its advanced home ultrasound devices to Clalit pre-natal mothers.

Tel Aviv University scientists have developed a low-cost vaccine for all Covid-19 variants that is administered as a nasal spray and can be stored at room temperature. The absence of needles means less stress for patients – a previous TAU study showed high stress made vaccines less effective. (Advanced Science article) (Advanced Science Back cover picture)

Israel’s Beyeonics Vision (see previously) has upgraded its “One” Augmented Reality digital visualization headset, with cutting-edge “invisible” infrared night-vision technology. It means that ophthalmic surgeons can now operate on patients’ eyes without causing discomfort to the patient.   (eye surgery video)