Aquaexchange raises Rs.50cr in Series A funding

• Vijayawada-based startup AquaExchange has secured $6 million in Series A funding led by Ocean 14 Capital, with participation from existing investors such as Endiya Partners and Accion Venture Labs.

• The funding will support AquaExchange in scaling its full-stack business model, encompassing farm automation, crop financing, and harvest procurement in aquaculture.

• AquaExchange aims to expand its presence in international markets for exporting its aquaculture technology devices.

• The startup previously raised $3 million in June 2022.

• AquaExchange's patented technology product, PowerMon, utilizes machine learning to monitor aquafarm power consumption, allowing farmers to track aerators, oxygen levels, and operational issues via mobile phones.

• The company is finalizing another technology for feed management, leveraging automation to ensure even and timely distribution, reducing feed wastage.

• AquaExchange founder Pavan Kosaraju expresses commitment to transforming aquaculture through technology.

The promise that Stem Cell Promises : STATvirtual Event

• A forthcoming #STATVirtual event on February 7 will focus on human stem cells and their potential in research and clinical applications.

• The event will feature the Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) of @CellDynamics, shedding light on the role of stem cells in medical research and treatment.

• Stem cells play a crucial role in regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and drug discovery, offering diverse applications in healthcare.

• Additionally, Bifrost Biosystems, a leader in cellular research technologies, is making strides in linking single-cell phenotypes to genes for better understanding disease biology.

• The event anticipates insightful discussions on the future of stem cell research and clinical applications.

The revolutionising potential of Gene Therapy in Retinal Care

• Gene therapy is advancing rapidly, particularly in treating retinal diseases, with approximately 20 FDA-approved therapies.

• Luxturna and CRISPR exa-cel are among the approved therapies, showcasing promise in treating conditions like Leber congenital amaurosis and sickle cell disease.

• ABBV-RGX-314 trials for neovascular age-related macular degeneration demonstrate positive results, including increased protein levels and reduced treatment burden.

• Innovative gene therapy approaches include gene augmentation, genome editing, and gene-agnostic methods.

• Atsena Therapeutics employs AAV technology in clinical trials for gene therapy, targeting various retinal diseases.

• Advancements in retinal gene therapy and photobiomodulation show potential in reversing damage caused by ischemic retinopathy.

• Emerging technologies may prevent vision loss and restore vision in ischemic retinopathy patients.

• While some gene therapies face challenges, ongoing research and improved methods indicate progress in retinal care.

• A UK study on inherited retinal diseases identifies genetic bases, informing future diagnoses and eligibility for gene-directed therapies.

• Despite challenges, gene therapy in retinal care is evolving with enhanced vectors, transgenes, and delivery methods, holding promise for the future of retinal care.

Space X Successfully Completes docking in International Space Station (ISS)

• Axiom Mission 3, a SpaceX flight, successfully docked on the International Space Station (ISS).

• The Falcon rocket launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Center carrying Italian, Swedish, and Turkish astronauts.

• The crew, including Turkey's first astronaut Alper Gezeravci, will spend two weeks on the ISS performing experiments and engaging with schoolchildren.

• The private flight was arranged by Axiom Space, with a retired NASA astronaut accompanying the team.

• Each of the participating countries, Italy, Sweden, and Turkey, is investing $55 million or more in the mission.