Background:
To achieve an economical cellulosic ethanol production, a host that can do both cellulosic saccharification and ethanol fermentation is desirable. However, to engineer a non-cellulolytic yeast to be such a host requires synthetic biology techniques to transform multiple enzyme genes into its genome.
Results:
A technique, named Promoter-based Gene Assembly and Simultaneous Overexpression (PGASO), that employs overlapping oligonucleotides for recombinatorial assembly of gene cassettes with individual promoters, was developed. PGASO was applied to engineer Kluyveromycesmarxianus KY3, which is a thermo- and toxin-tolerant yeast. We obtained a recombinant strain, called KR5, that is capable of simultaneously expressing exoglucanase and endoglucanase (both of Trichodermareesei), a beta-glucosidase (from a cow rumen fungus), a neomycin phosphotransferase, and a green fluorescent protein. High transformation efficiency and accuracy were achieved as ~63% of the transformants was confirmed to be correct. KR5 can utilize beta-glycan, cellobiose or CMC as the sole carbon source for growth and can directly convert cellobiose and beta-glycan to ethanol.
Conclusions:
This study provides the first example of multi-gene assembly in a single step in a yeast species other than Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We successfully engineered a yeast host with a five-gene cassette assembly and the new host is capable of co-expressing three types of cellulase genes. Our study shows that PGASO is an efficient tool for simultaneous expression of multiple enzymes in the kefir yeast KY3 and that KY3 can serve as a host for developing synthetic biology tools.Source:
http://www.biotechnologyforbiofuels.com/rss/

Background:
Lipids produced from filamentous fungi show great promise for biofuel production, but a major limiting factor is the high production cost attributed to feedstock. Lignocellulosic biomass is a suitable feedstock for biofuel production due to its abundance and low value. However, very limited study has been performed on lipid production by culturing oleaginous fungi with lignocellulosic materials. Thus, identification of filamentous fungal strains capable of utilizing lignocellulosic hydrolysates for lipid accumulation is critical to improve the process and reduce the production cost.
Results:
The growth performances of eleven filamentous fungi were investigated when cultured on glucose and xylose. Their dry cell weights, lipid contents and fatty acid profiles were determined. Six fungal strains with high lipid contents were selected to culture with the hydrolysate from dilute sulfuric acid pretreatment of wheat straw. The results showed that all the selected fungal strains were able to grow on both detoxified liquid hydrolysate (DLH) and non-detoxified liquid hydrolysate (NDLH). The highest lipid content of 39.4% was obtained by Mortierella isabellina on NDLH. In addition, NDLH with some precipitate could help M. isabellina form pellets with an average diameter of 0.11 mm.
Conclusion:
This study demonstrated the possibility of fungal lipid production from lignocellulosic biomass. M. isabellina was the best lipid producer grown on lignocellulosic hydrolysates among the tested filamentous fungi, because it could not only accumulate oils with a high content by directly utilizing NDLH to simplify the fermentation process, but also form proper pellets to benefit the downstream harvesting. Considering the yield and cost, fungal lipids from lignocellulosic biomass are promising alternative sources for biodiesel production.Source:
http://www.biotechnologyforbiofuels.com/rss/

Cellulose amorphogenesis, described as the non-hydrolytic "opening up" or disruption of a cellulosic substrate, is becoming increasingly recognized as one of the key steps in the enzymatic deconstruction of cellulosic biomass when used as a feedstock for fuels and chemicals production. Although this process is thought to play a major role in facilitating hydrolysis, the lack of quantitative techniques capable of accurately describing the molecular-level changes occurring in the substrate during amorphogenesis has hindered our understanding of this process.
Results:
In this work, techniques for measuring changes in cellulose accessibility are reviewed and a new quantitative assay method is described. Carbohydrate binding modules (CBMs) with specific affinities for crystalline (CBM2a) or amorphous (CBM44) cellulose were used to track specific changes in the surface morphology of cotton fibres during amorphogenesis. The extents of phosphoric acid-induced and Swollenin-induced changes to cellulose accessibility were successfully quantified using this technique.
Conclusions:
The adsorption of substructure-specific CBMs can be used to accurately quantify the extent of changes to cellulose accessibility induced by non-hydrolytic disruptive proteins. The technique provided a quick, accurate and quantitative measure of the accessibility of cellulosic substrates. Expanding the range of CBMs used for adsorption studies to include those specific for such compounds as xylan ormannanshould also allow for the accurate quantitative tracking of the accessibility of these and other polymers within the lignocellulosic biomass matrix.Source:
http://www.biotechnologyforbiofuels.com/rss/

Background:
Fungi are important players in the turnover of plant biomass because they produce a broad range of degradative enzymes. Aspergillus nidulans, a well-studied saprophyte and close homologue to industrially important species such as A. niger and A. oryzae, was selected for this study.
Results:
A. nidulans was grown on sorghum stover under solid-state culture conditions for 1, 2, 3, 5, 7 and 14 days. Based on analysis of chitin content, A. nidulans grew to be 4-5% of the total biomass in the culture after 2 days and then maintained a steady state of 4% of the total biomass for the next 12 days. A hyphal mat developed on the surface of the sorghum by day one and as seen by scanning electron microscopy the hyphae enmeshed the sorghum particles by day 5. After 14 days hyphae had penetrated the entire sorghum slurry. Analysis (1-D PAGE LC-MS/MS) of the secretome of A. nidulans, and analysis of the breakdown products from the sorghum stover showed a wide range of enzymes secreted. A total of 294 extracellular proteins were identified with hemicellulases, cellulases, polygalacturonases, chitinases, esterases and lipases predominating the secretome. Time course analysis revealed a total of 196, 166, 172 and 182 proteins on day 1, 3, 7 and 14 respectively. The fungus used 20% of the xylan and cellulose by day 7 and 30% by day 14. Cellobiose dehydrogenase, feruloyl esterases, and CAZy family 61 endoglucanases, all of which are thought to reduce the recalcitrance of biomass to hydrolysis, were found in high abundance.
Conclusions:
Our results show that A. nidulans secretes a wide array of enzymes to degrade the major polysaccharides and lipids (but probably not lignin) by 1 day of growth on sorghum. The data suggests simultaneous breakdown of hemicellulose, cellulose and pectin. Despite secretion of most of the enzymes on day 1, changes in the relative abundances of enzymes over the time course indicates that the set of enzymes secreted is tailored to the specific substrates available. Our findings reveal that A. nidulans is capable of degrading the major polysaccharides in sorghum without any chemical pre-treatment.Source:
http://www.biotechnologyforbiofuels.com/rss/

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) Vice President of Alliance Development and State Government Relations Fritz Bittenbender issued the following statement today regarding Alameda County, California's new ordinance requiring drug makers to set up programs to dispose of expired and unused drugs:

"BIO supports effective efforts to protect patients, safeguard water resources, and address potential abuses associated with unused medications. The ordinance passed this week in Northern California's Alameda County, while well intended, will have little impact on any of these concerns.

There is no scientific consensus that drug take-back programs help the environment or reduce instances of prescription drug abuse. In fact, segregating unused prescription drugs from conventional solid waste may serve to increase illegal drug trafficking.

Ultimately, this measure will simply increase costs, and potentially limit patient access to certain life-saving therapies."

About BIO

BIO represents more than 1,100 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and in more than 30 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products. BIO also produces the BIO International Convention, the worlds largest gathering of the biotechnology industry, along with industry-leading investor and partnering meetings held around the world. BIO produces BIOtechNOW, an online portal and monthly newsletter chronicling innovations transforming our world. Subscribe to BIOtechNOW.

Upcoming BIO Events

BIO India International Conference September 12 13, 2012 Mumbai, India

Livestock Biotech Summit September 19 21, 2012 Kansas City, MO

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BIO Opposes A Northern California County's New Drug Disposal Law

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/57h2sv/top_472_biotechnol) has announced the addition of the "Top 472 Biotechnology (Pharmaceuticals) (Global)" report to their offering.

This report is an in-depth financial evaluation of the GlobalBiotechnology (Pharmaceuticals). Using the unique Plimsoll method of analysis, each of the top 472 companies included is individually assessed and ranked against each other and compared to industry averages.Using the most up-to-date financial information available, the two-page per company analysis provides detailed financial analysis for each organisation. The following are some of the key findings of this new report:

- 210 of the 472 companies analysed have been rated as Danger

- 126 companies are ripe for takeover

- 300 companies achieved greater than 10% increase in sales last year.

- 196 companies made a pre-tax loss.

- 145 companies saw sales fall last year.

Our analysis gives you this unrivalled market and company intelligence using a simple graphical, numeric and model. Each company is individually analysed in both the company's own currency, and USD ($) for ease of use. These individual analyses highlight a company's strengths and weaknesses instantly.

Along with individual company information, this report also contains a comprehensive study of the market, based on the companies analysed. This key information includes:

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Research and Markets: Top 472 Biotechnology (Pharmaceuticals) (Global)

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/nngzvh/us_biotechnology_i) has announced the addition of the "US Biotechnology Industry: Sector Report" report to their offering.

This industry profile is an essential tool to help your company gain an in-depth knowledge and competitive advantage in the industry. The profile is an assimilation of insider knowledge, market characteristics and economic indicators. It analyzes the critical success factors in the industry - how the industry has evolved and how competitive dynamics have impacted market behavior.

Sectional Highlights

-- Structure of the industry, market size, and growth rates have been analyzed

-- Value chain analysis categorizes the value-adding activities to develop low-cost differentiation strategies

-- Trend analysis detects historical patterns that could help in forecasting future demand periods

-- Critical issues are reviewed that may become a threat to the industry

-- PEST analysis uses a framework of external factors for macro-environmental scanning of the industry to help in taking advantage of opportunities and making contingency plans for threats

-- Competitive positioning of the industry leaders has been evaluated in terms of sales, profitability, stock trend and other performance indicators

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Research and Markets: US Biotechnology Industry: Sector Report - Market Size and Key Trends

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/vg7gkl/biotechnology_reag) has announced the addition of the "Biotechnology Reagents Market by Technology, Applications and End-Users - Current Trends, Opportunities and Global Forecasts to 2016" report to their offering.

The biotechnology reagent market is vast; it consists of several technologies such as PCR, cell culture, IVD, expression and transfection, chromatography, spectrometry, electrophoresis, and flow cytometry. This report studies the biotechnology reagents market, by technology, end-users, and applications. The biotechnology reagents market, by technology studied in this report are segmented as life science reagents and analytical reagents; of which life science segment accounted for the largest share of 59.37% of the total market in 2011. The global biotechnology reagents market was valued at $40.3 billion in 2011 and is expected to reach $59.3 billion by 2016; growing at a CAGR of 8% from 2011 to 2016.

The biotechnology reagents market is driven by the increasing use of reagents in therapeutics, basic research and commercial applications. The demand for biotechnology reagents is mainly dependent upon the growth of the biotechnology instrumentation market. The biotechnology instrumentation market continues to witness significant growth due to an increase in the number of biotechnology firms around the globe and increase in research and development expenditure by the biotechnology companies, thus augmenting the demand for biotechnology instruments. Continual product developments are being witnessed in various industries, such as pharmaceutical/bio-pharmaceutical, agri-biotech, and food and beverages; this is expected to facilitate market growth.

North America dominated the biotechnology reagents market with 46.28% share in 2011. Successful completion of the first phase of the Human Genome Project, ahead of schedule, has given rise in the U.S. reagent market. Investments, government funding, and new products are driving the reagents market in the U.S. The Asian market, however, shows greater opportunities, when compared to other regions, with the highest CAGR of 11.8% from 2011 to 2016; due to increased research outsourcing activities in the life technology field.

Key Topics Covered:

1 Introduction

2 Executive Summary

3 Market Overview

4 Life Sciences & Analytical Reagents Market, By Technology

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Research and Markets: Biotechnology Reagents Market by Technology, Applications and End-Users - Current Trends ...

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -07/26/12)- The Biotechnology Industry has been soaring in 2012 as companies -- both large and small -- have shown impressive growth. The SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) and the First Trust NYSE Arca Biotech Index ETF (FBT) year-to-date are up 38 percent and 37 percent, respectively, outperforming the broader market by a wide margin. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on Onyx Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (ONXX) and Sarepta Therapeutics Inc. (SRPT).

Access to the full company reports can be found at: http://www.ParagonReport.com/ONXX http://www.ParagonReport.com/SRPT

Despite having to negotiate a more challenging regulation process biotech companies have continued to show investors strong gains in 2012. The FDA Amendments Act of 2007 forced regulators to increase standards for approvals of new drugs, introducing mandatory risk evaluation and mitigation strategies. According to a Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology report from IMAP, several pharmaceutical firms have altered their drug portfolios from primary care driven blockbusters towards specialties such as oncology, immunology and inflammation, where the medical need is "so high that prices are more easily accepted by the regulators."

Paragon Report releases regular market updates on the Biotechnology Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.ParagonReport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Onyx Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a global biopharmaceutical company engaged in the development and commercialization of innovative therapies for improving the lives of people with cancer. The company recently announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have granted accelerated approval of Kyprolis. Shares of the company are up over 70 percent year-to-date.

Sarepta Therapeutics -- formerly AVI BioPharma -- is focused on developing first-in-class RNA-based therapeutics to improve and save the lives of people affected by serious and life-threatening rare and infectious diseases. Shares of the company soared over 140 percent after they released positive clinical results for their lead drug candidate eteplirsen.

The Paragon Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. Paragon Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.paragonreport.com/disclaimer

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Onyx Pharmaceuticals and Sarepta Therapeutics Showing Investors Strong Gains in 2012 - Biotech Industry Booming

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -07/25/12)- The Biotechnology Industry has been soaring in 2012 as companies -- both large and small -- have shown impressive growth. The SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) and the First Trust NYSE Arca Biotech Index ETF (FBT) year-to-date are up 38 percent and 37 percent, respectively, outperforming the broader market by a wide margin. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on Aastrom Biosciences, Inc. (ASTM) and Geron Corporation (GERN).

Access to the full company reports can be found at: http://www.ParagonReport.com/ASTM http://www.ParagonReport.com/GERN

Despite having to negotiate a more challenging regulation process, biotech companies have continued to show investors strong gains in 2012. The FDA Amendments Act of 2007 forced regulators to increase standards for approvals of new drugs, introducing mandatory risk evaluation and mitigation strategies. According to a Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology report from IMAP, several pharmaceutical firms have altered their drug portfolios from primary care driven blockbusters towards specialties such as oncology, immunology and inflammation, where the medical need is "so high that prices are more easily accepted by the regulators."

Paragon Report releases regular market updates on the Biotechnology Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.ParagonReport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Aastrom Biosciences is dedicated to the development of stem cell treatments for critical cardiovascular diseases. Aastrom is currently evaluating its autologous cellular therapies in late-stage U.S. clinical trials in the treatment of critical limb ischemia (CLI) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). These critical diseases are associated with significant morbidity and mortality and very limited treatment options.

Geron is a biopharmaceutical company developing first-in-class therapies for cancer. The company has two lead product candidates in clinical development, imetelstat and GRN1005. Imetelstat is a telomerase inhibitor that is being evaluated in four Phase 2 clinical trials. GRN1005 is a peptide-drug conjugate that is designed to transport a proven anti-cancer drug, paclitaxel.

The Paragon Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. Paragon Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.paragonreport.com/disclaimer

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Despite Facing More Challenging Regulation Process Biotech Companies Showing Impressive Growth in 2012

NEW YORK, July 26, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Reportlinker.com announces that a new market research report is available in its catalogue:

Biotechnology Reagents Market by Technology (PCR, Cell Culture, Expression & Transfection, Chromatography, Mass Spectrometry, Electrophoresis, & Flow Cytometry), Applications (Protein Purification, Gene Expression, DNA & RNA Analysis, & Drug Testing) and

http://www.reportlinker.com/p0938971/Biotechnology-Reagents-Market-by-Technology-PCR-Cell-Culture-Expression--Transfection-Chromatography-Mass-Spectrometry-Electrophoresis--Flow-Cytometry-Applications-Protein-Purification-Gene-Expression-DNA--RNA-Analysis--Drug-Testing-and.html#utm_source=prnewswire&utm_medium=pr&utm_campaign=In_Vitro_Diagnostic

Biotechnology reagents are the substances or compounds used to detect or synthesize another substance in order to provide a test reading. These reagents are used in the field of research, diagnosis, bioscience, and education.

The biotechnology reagent market is vast; it consists of several technologies such as PCR, cell culture, IVD, expression and transfection, chromatography, spectrometry, electrophoresis, and flow cytometry. This report studies the biotechnology reagents market, by technology, end-users, and applications. The biotechnology reagents market, by technology studied in this report are segmented as life science reagents and analytical reagents; of which life science segment accounted for the largest share of 59.37% of the total market in 2011. The global biotechnology reagents market was valued at $40.3 billion in 2011 and is expected to reach $59.3 billion by 2016; growing at a CAGR of 8% from 2011 to 2016.

The biotechnology reagents market is driven by the increasing use of reagents in therapeutics, basic research and commercial applications. The demand for biotechnology reagents is mainly dependent upon the growth of the biotechnology instrumentation market. The biotechnology instrumentation market continues to witness significant growth due to an increase in the number of biotechnology firms around the globe and increase in research and development expenditure by the biotechnology companies, thus augmenting the demand for biotechnology instruments. Continual product developments are being witnessed in various industries, such as pharmaceutical/bio-pharmaceutical, agri-biotech, and food and beverages; this is expected to facilitate market growth.

North America dominated the biotechnology reagents market with 46.28% share in 2011. Successful completion of the first phase of the Human Genome Project, ahead of schedule, has given rise in the U.S. reagent market. Investments, government funding, and new products are driving the reagents market in the U.S. The Asian market, however, shows greater opportunities, when compared to other regions, with the highest CAGR of 11.8% from 2011 to 2016; due to increased research outsourcing activities in the life technology field.

Major players in the global biotechnology reagents market include Life Technologies, (U.S.), Bio-Rad (U.S.), Thermo Fisher Scientific (U.S.), Water Corporation (U.S.), Sigma-Aldrich (U.S.), Agilent Technologies Inc. (U.S.), Betcon Dickinson (U.S.), Beckman Coulter (U.S.), Roche (Switzerland), and Abbott (U.S.).

Scope of the Report

This biotechnology reagents market report will enable strategic understanding of the following key segments of the market:

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Biotechnology Reagents Market by Technology (PCR, Cell Culture, Expression & Transfection, Chromatography, Mass ...

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/7gb7zj/biotechnology_prod) has announced the addition of the "Biotechnology Product Manufacturing" report to their offering.

The US biotechnology product manufacturing industry includes about 1,500 companies with combined annual revenue of more than $90 billion. Major companies include Amgen, Biogen Idec, Genentech (owned by Switzerland-based Roche), Genzyme, Life Technologies, and Monsanto. Because many drugs are now developed using biotechnology, the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries overlap considerably. Related profiles include Biotechnology Research Services, Crop Production, and Pharmaceutical Manufacturing.

The global biotechnology industry includes about 7,000 companies with total revenues of $140 billion. Top regions for biotechnology include the US and Canada, Australia, and Europe, according to Ernst & Youngs Beyond Borders Global Biotechnology Report. Top companies include CSL Limited (Australia), Cangene (Canada), Galapagos nv (Belgium), and ADIMMUNE (Taiwan), as well as the biotech research arms of major international pharmaceutical companies including Novo Nordisk and Sanofi.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Demand for biotechnology in the fields of medicine, agriculture, food, and science is driven by insurers' willingness to pay for new medical treatments, the global need to produce more food for a rapidly expanding population, and scientists' desire to find solutions for complex scientific and medical issues. Funding for biotech research is often provided by venture capital funds hoping to cash in on new products. The profitability of individual companies depends on the discovery and effective marketing of new products.

Key Topics Covered:

Industry Overview

Quarterly Industry Update

Business Challenges

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Research and Markets: 2012 Report on the $90 Billion US Biotechnology Product Manufacturing Industry

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -07/24/12)- The Biotechnology Industry has been soaring in 2012 as companies -- both large and small -- have shown impressive growth. The SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) and the First Trust NYSE Arca Biotech Index ETF (FBT) year-to-date are up 38 percent and 37 percent, respectively, outperforming the broader market by a wide margin. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on AEterna Zentaris Inc. (AEZS) (AEZ.TO) and MannKind Corporation (MNKD).

Access to the full company reports can be found at:

http://www.ParagonReport.com/AEZS http://www.ParagonReport.com/MNKD

Despite having to negotiate a more challenging regulation process biotech companies have continued to show investors strong gains in 2012. The FDA Amendments Act of 2007 forced regulators to increase standards for approvals of new drugs, introducing mandatory risk evaluation and mitigation strategies. According to a Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology report from IMAP, several pharmaceutical firms have altered their drug portfolios from primary care driven blockbusters towards specialties such as oncology, immunology and inflammation, where the medical need is "so high that prices are more easily accepted by the regulators."

Paragon Report releases regular market updates on the Biotechnology Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.ParagonReport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Aeterna Zentaris is an oncology and endocrinology drug development company currently investigating treatments for various unmet medical needs. The Company's pipeline encompasses compounds at all stages of development, from drug discovery through to marketed products. The company last month reported its Japanese partner Yakult Honsha has initiated a Phase 1 trial in multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer, with perifosine.

MannKind is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development and commercialization of therapeutic products for patients with diseases such as diabetes and cancer. Their lead investigational product candidate, AFREZZA is a novel, ultra rapid-acting mealtime insulin therapy. AFREZZA is in late stage clinical investigation for the treatment of adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

The Paragon Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. Paragon Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.paragonreport.com/disclaimer

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Despite Navigating More Challenging Regulation Process Biotech Companies Thriving in 2012

NOKOMIS, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Rainbow BioSciences, the biotechnology subsidiary of Rainbow Coral Corp. (RBCCD), announced today that the company has signed an extension of its letter of intent with emerging biotech innovator Amarantus BioSciences (AMBS).

Amarantus is on the verge of delivering startling new breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders from Parkinsons disease to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Amarantus owns the rights to a promising therapeutic protein known as MANF that prevents a type of cell death called apoptosis as well as the license to a groundbreaking diagnostic platform called NuroPro that allows neurologists to accurately diagnose and track the progression of Parkinsons disease in patients.

Amarantus is doing exciting work that we believe will change the way neurological diseases are diagnosed and treated, said RBCC CEO Patrick Brown. They have several current projects that were interested in, and an extension of the terms of our previous LOI will allow us to complete our due diligence toward choosing a direction with this life-saving company with the most potential return for our shareholders.

Once RBCC completes its due diligence, the companies will negotiate a possible deal for RBCC to provide funding and expertise toward the development and marketing of one or more of Amarantus projects.

Rainbow BioSciences is working to develop new medical and research technology innovations to compete alongside companies such as Cell Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:CTIC),Biogen Idec Inc. (NASDAQ:BIIB) and Elan Corp. (NYSE:ELN).

For more information on Rainbow BioSciences, RBCCs biotechnology division, please visit http://www.rainbowbiosciences.com/investors.html.

About Rainbow BioSciences

Rainbow BioSciences, LLC, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rainbow Coral Corp. (OTCBB:RBCC). The company continually seeks out new partnerships with biotechnology developers to deliver profitable new medical technologies and innovations. For more information on our growth-oriented business initiatives, please visit our website at [www.RainbowBioSciences.com]. For investment information and performance data on the company, please visit http://www.RainbowBioSciences.com/investors.html.

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

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RBCC Extends Joint Venture Negotiations With Amarantus

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -07/24/12)- The Biotechnology Industry has been soaring in 2012 as companies -- both large and small -- have shown impressive growth. The SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) and the First Trust NYSE Arca Biotech Index ETF (FBT) year-to-date are up 38 percent and 37 percent, respectively, outperforming the broader market by a wide margin. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on StemCells, Inc. (STEM) and Keryx Biopharmaceuticals (KERX).

Access to the full company reports can be found at:

http://www.ParagonReport.com/STEM http://www.ParagonReport.com/KERX

Despite having to negotiate a more challenging regulation process biotech companies have continued to show investors strong gains in 2012. The FDA Amendments Act of 2007 forced regulators to increase standards for approvals of new drugs, introducing mandatory risk evaluation and mitigation strategies. According to a Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology report from IMAP, several pharmaceutical firms have altered their drug portfolios from primary care driven blockbusters towards specialties such as oncology, immunology and inflammation, where the medical need is "so high that prices are more easily accepted by the regulators."

Paragon Report releases regular market updates on the Biotechnology Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.ParagonReport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

StemCells is engaged in the research, development, and commercialization of cell-based therapeutics and tools for use in stem cell-based research and drug discovery. The company recently announced preclinical data demonstrating that its proprietary human neural stem cells restored memory and enhanced synaptic function in two animal models relevant to Alzheimer's disease. Shares of the company have soared nearly 90 percent this year.

Keryx Biopharmaceuticals is focused on the acquisition, development and commercialization of medically important pharmaceutical products for the treatment of renal disease. Keryx is developing Zerenex (ferric citrate), an oral, ferric iron-based compound that has the capacity to bind to phosphate and form non-absorbable complexes. Shares of the company have rebounded nearly 50 percent over the last three months.

The Paragon Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. Paragon Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.paragonreport.com/disclaimer

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StemCells and Keryx Biopharmaceuticals Showing Strong Gains as Biotechnology Industry Soars in 2012

Posted on July 23, 2012, Monday

PLATFORM FOR OPPORTUNITIES: The meeting provided opportunities for both parties to explore collaboration opportunities available in Malaysia and their home countries.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Biotechnology Corporation (BiotechCorp) recently held a networking lunch with foreign diplomatic corps to provide them with the latest highlights pertaining to the biotechnology industry.

The event was attended by foreign ambassadors, diplomats, as well as members of the foreign trade from the United States, Canada, Italy, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Venezuela, Azerbaijan, South Africa, Uruguay, Swaziland, China, and the Philippines.

In a statement, BiotechCorp said the meeting provided opportunities for both parties to explore collaboration opportunities available in Malaysia and their home countries.

BiotechCorp chief executive officer Datuk Dr Mohd Nazlee Kamal was quoted as saying in the statement that the event served as an ideal platform for the corporation to promote foreign direct investments in biotechnology.

It also helped create market access for local biotech products and services, particularly for BioNexus status companies and strengthen networking between BiotechCorp and Diplomatic Corps, he added. Bernama

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Biotechcorp updates diplomatic corp on industry developments

SEATTLE, July 24, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Plandai Biotechnology, Inc. (PLPL) a producer of highly bioavailable plant extracts, today announced that it has received the funds from the initial draw down on the 100 million Rand (US $13 million) loan from the Land and Agriculture Bank of South Africa. The total amount of the first draw was 49 million Rand (approx. $5.6 million USD).

Plandai Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Roger Duffield, commented, "This initial draw is the first step in moving towards full-scale production of our highly bioavailable botanical extracts. These funds will allow us to complete the engineering of the plant and equipment and acquire the necessary components so that we can be operational in the 2013- 2014 tea season. Further drawdowns will provide the necessary investment to rejuvenate and operate the Senteeko Tea Estate as a modern and efficient farming enterprise that will produce high levels of polyphenolic catechin in quality green tea leaf l." Mr. Duffield continued; "Our daily expected processing output from the processing of live green tea leaf should yield between 400 -600 kg of extract; and during the dormant tea growing period, the extraction facility has the flexibility to be utilized to recover valuable bioflavonoids and limonoids from citrus fruits, giving the processing facility the ability to operate all year round."

Several epidemiological studies have shown beneficial effects of green tea in cancer, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases. The health benefits associated with green tea consumption have also been corroborated in animal studies of cancer chemoprevention, hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and other aging-related disorders. However, the use of current green tea and green tea extracts as a cancer preventive or for other health benefits has been confounded by the low oral bioavailability of its active polyphenolic catechins, particularly epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG).

The proprietary CRS hydrodynamic system developed by Plandai releases antioxidants that are recovered in the process in a form more readily absorbable in human tissue.

The Land and Agriculture Bank of South Africa (http://www.landbank.co.za/) is a specialist agricultural bank guided by a government mandate to provide financial services to the commercial farming sector and to agri-business and to facilitate access to finance by new entrants to agriculture from historically disadvantaged backgrounds.

About Plandai Biotechnology, Inc.

Plandai Biotechnology, Inc. focuses on the farming of whole fruits, vegetables and live plant material and the production of proprietary functional foods and botanical extracts for the health and wellness industry. Its principle holdings consist of land, farms and infrastructure in South Africa. Web site: http://www.plandaibiotech.com/

Safe Harbor Statement

The information provided may contain forward-looking statements and involve risks and uncertainties. Results, events and performances could vary from those contemplated. These statements involve risks and uncertainties which may cause actual results, expressed or implied, to differ from predicted outcomes. Risks and uncertainties include product demand, market competition, and Plandai's ability to meet current or future plans. Investors should study and understand all risks before making an investment decision. Readers are recommended not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. Plandai is not obliged to publicly release revisions to any forward-looking statement, to reflect events or circumstances afterward, or to disclose unanticipated occurrences, except as required under applicable laws.

Link:
Plandai Biotechnology, Inc. Receives $5.6 Million Initial Funding From the Land and Agriculture Bank of South Africa

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/lmdmn2/european_directory) has announced the addition of the "European Directory of Biotechnology Companies 2012-2013" report to their offering.

The European Directory of Biotechnology Companies 2012-13 is one of the most comprehensive and accurate Directory of companies and executives in the biotechnology industry that have ever been published. It contains more than 2,000 biotechnology companies and 5,000 executives working in the industry throughout Europe.

This powerful Directory is your connection to key decision-makers in the biotechnology industry in Europe.

No other European directory keeps you abreast of the thousands of personnel changes taking place due to company mergers, acquisitions, consolidations, and staff turnover. This Directory is a must-have for anyone who needs to find contacts in the biotechnology throughout Europe.

This Directory will enable you to:

- Pinpoint key executives

- Profile a market

- Build new business prospects

- Generate new customers

See the article here:
Research and Markets: European Directory of Biotechnology Companies 2012-2013

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/7bbdj3/japanese_biotechno) has announced the addition of the "Japanese Biotechnology Sector: Industry Profile" report to their offering.

This industry profile helps to gain an insight into the evolution of the industry and competitive dynamics prevalent in the market. It discusses the significant developments in the industry and analyzes the key trends and issues. The profile provides inputs in strategic business planning of industry professionals.

Key Topics Covered:

Industry Snapshot

This section gives a holistic overview of the industry. It starts with defining the market and goes on to give historical and current market size figures. It also clearly illustrates the major segments of the market which would be discussed later on in the report.

Industry Analysis

It involves a comprehensive analysis of the industry and its market segments. This section discusses the key developments that have taken place in the industry. It also identifies and analyzes the driving factors and challenges of the industry. A description of the regulatory structure tells us about the major regulatory bodies, laws and government policies.

Country Analysis

This section presents the key facts & figures of the country. It also discusses the political environment and the macroeconomic indicators. It analyzes government stability and economic growth of the country.

See more here:
Research and Markets: Japanese Biotechnology Sector: Industry Profile

Background:
Temporal and spatial expression of fatty acid and lipid biosynthetic genes are associated with the accumulation of storage lipids in the seeds of oil plants. In jatropha (Jatropha curcas L.), a potential biofuel plant, the storage lipids are mainly synthesized and accumulated in the endosperm of seeds. Although the fatty acid and lipid biosynthetic genes in jatropha have been identified, the expression of these genes at different developing stages of endosperm has not been systemically investigated.
Results:
Transmission electron microscopy study revealed that the oil body formation in developing endosperm of jatropha seeds initially appeared at 28 days after fertilization (DAF), were actively developed at 42 DAF and reached to the maximum number and size at 56 DAF. Sixty-eight genes that encode enzymes, proteins or their subunits involved in fatty acid and lipid biosynthesis were identified from a normalized cDNA library of jatropha developing endosperm. Gene expression with quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis demonstrated that the 68 genes could be collectively grouped into five categories based on the patterns of relative expression of the genes during endosperm development. Category I has 47 genes and they displayed a bell-shaped expression pattern with the peak expression at 28 or 42 DAF, but low expression at 14 and 56 DAF. Category II contains 8 genes and expression of the 8 genes was constantly increased from 14 to 56 DAF. Category III comprises of 2 genes and both genes were constitutively expressed throughout endosperm development. Category IV has 9 genes and they showed a high expression at 14 and 28 DAF, but a decreased expression from 42 to 56 DAF. Category V consists of 2 genes and both genes showed a medium expression at 14 DAF, the lowest expression at 28 or 42 DAF, and the highest expression at 56 DAF. In addition, genes encoding enzymes or proteins with similar function were differentially expressed during endosperm development.
Conclusion:
The formation of oil bodies in jatropha endosperm is developmentally regulated. The expression of the majority of fatty acid and lipid biosynthetic genes is highly consistent with the development of oil bodies and endosperm in jatropha seeds, while the genes encoding enzymes with similar function may be differentially expressed during endosperm development. These results not only provide the initial information on spatial and temporal expression of fatty acid and lipid biosynthetic genes in jatropha developing endosperm, but are also valuable to identify the rate-limiting genes for storage lipid biosynthesis and accumulation during seed development.Source:
http://www.biotechnologyforbiofuels.com/rss/