WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) applauds the Senate on the passage of H.R. 3606, the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act. The JOBS Act, which passed the Senate by a vote of 73-26, contains several provisions which would make the pathway to capital formation more attainable for small biotechnology companies, clearing the way for American innovation and ingenuity by removing bureaucratic hurdles and red tape to speed cures and medical breakthroughs to patients.

The JOBS Act creates an on-ramp to the public market for emerging growth companies, allowing them five years to focus on conducting critical research that can lead to cures for debilitating diseases before having to divert funds to costly regulations. Through this legislation, emerging growth companies would be exempt for their first five years on the public market from the compliance burdens of Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) Section 404(b), which SEC studies estimate cost companies up to $2 million per year. An on-ramp would ease certain accounting and disclosure requirements for a companys first five years. In addition, the legislation would:

BIO supports resolving the differences between the Senate- and House-passed versions of the JOBS Act and encourages lawmakers to work together to enact this important legislation into law.

BIO President and CEO Jim Greenwood made the following statement today:

BIO applauds passage of the JOBS Act and all efforts to incentivize and encourage capital formation for growing companies. This legislation would make capital formation easier for small, emerging biotechnology companies, speeding the development of new cures and treatments for patients living with debilitating diseases such as cancer, diabetes, Parkinsons, and HIV/AIDS. Bringing such groundbreaking cures and treatments from bench to bedside is a long and arduous road, and biotechnology companies are at the forefront of the effort.

These reforms are especially important to innovative biotechnology companies that do not yet have product revenue and must spend investor dollars on compliance rather than the search for cures and breakthrough medicines, Greenwood explained.

It can take more than a decade to bring a new medicine from discovery, through Phase I, Phase II, and Phase III clinical trials, and on to FDA approval of a product, according to the Tufts Center for the Study of Drug Development. The entire endeavor can cost more than $1.2 billion. Due to this capital-intensive process, biotech companies must cultivate a wide range of public and private investors to finance the early stages of development.

Greenwood went on to note, In addition to the R&D hurdles that biotechnology companies face on their search for cures and breakthrough medicines, biotech leaders must also deal with the day-to-day challenges of running a small business with the hopes of one day entering the public market. Of great import in the biotechnology industry is the constant struggle to find working capital.

If burdens on public financing were removed, private investors would have greater certainty that the companies they help take public will have the chance to succeed. This confidence hopefully will lead to increased investments in promising science that could lead to treatments and cures for some of the most debilitating and life-threatening diseases.

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BIO Praises Senate Passage of the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act

15-03-2012 15:54 This screencast focuses on stem cells, their sources, and their potential applications in biomedical research.

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Biotechnology Screencast Session 5.m4v - Video

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -03/22/12)- In recent years, smaller biotechnology companies have received less funding from venture capitalists than in years past. According to the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), roughly 61 percent of venture capitalists cite the FDA's challenging approval process as having the largest impact on their investment decisions. Five Star Equities examines the outlook for companies in the Biotechnology industry and provides equity research on Avanir Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: AVNR - News) and Zalicus Inc. (NASDAQ: ZLCS - News). Access to the full company reports can be found at: http://www.fivestarequities.com/AVNR http://www.fivestarequities.com/ZLCS

A recent legislation, dubbed the TREAT Act, introduced by U.S. Sen. Kay Hagan, D-N.C., accelerates the review and approval process for medicines that treat an unmet medical need or significantly advance the standard of care for people suffering from deadly diseases. The bill could bring a boost to smaller biotech firms that often struggle to bring drugs to market. But the legislation, which is now in committee, will likely meet resistance from the Food and Drug Administration.

Five Star Equities 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.fivestarequities.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

According to the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), 61 percent of venture capitalists cite FDA regulatory challenges as having the highest impact on their investment decisions. Venture capitalists invested a total of $3.92 billion last year in biotechs of all stages. This figure was well below the $6.17 billion peak in 2007, according to VentureSource. And shares in biotechs that went public last year averaged 29% less than their expected midpoint offering price, according to investment bank Needham & Co.

Last year, 98 biotechs received venture funding for the first time, down from 141 in 2007, a MoneyTree report from PricewaterhouseCoopers said. The start-ups raised a total of $842 million in initial financings in 2011, down 19% from the 2007 total.

Five Star Equities provides Market Research focused on equities that offer growth opportunities, value, and strong potential return. We strive to provide the most up-to-date market activities. We constantly create research reports and newsletters for our members. Five Star Equities has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned companies. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.fivestarequities.com/disclaimer

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TREAT Act Poised to Revolutionize the Biotechnology Industry

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) announces voting for the Buzz of BIO will open Monday, April 2, 2012. The Buzz winners will be featured at the 2012 BIO International Convention, held June 18-21, 2012 at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, MA. BIO is asking voters to look for innovative biotech companies that are research and development intensive. Select winners will receive complimentary registration to the Convention with Partnering, the opportunity to deliver a 15-minute Company Presentation in the BIO Business Forum and promotion by the BIO International Convention team to industry media.

Winners are determined by votes cast from life science thought leaders within the industry. Voting, which is available online, will give emerging companies looking to develop strategic partnerships a chance to gain invaluable exposure amongst their global life sciences peers. Early stage biotech companies should be encouraged by the data presented in the recently released BIO Industry Analysis Survey. The data shows investor optimism appears restored with a majority (56%) believing now is a good time to invest, particularly in early stage companies. In addition, partnering activity at the BIO Business Forum in June is expected to increase from last year, giving emerging companies numerous opportunities to connect and align with other organizations and companies.

Through the recognition received as a Buzz of BIO Winner, those emerging companies taking the title will enter Convention and the BIO Business Forum with a heightened sense of anticipation and excitement, allowing for endless partnering opportunities, said Alan Eisenberg, Executive Vice President, Emerging Companies & Business Development at BIO.

The BIO Business Forum has grownover thepast eleven years to become theindustry's largest partnering event, hosting a record breaking 21,000+ partnering meetings in 2011. Powered byBIO's One-on-One Partnering System, the Business Forum fosters the opportunity for companies toinitiate business contacts in a friendly environment and schedule meetings prior to theconference. To take advantage of partnering, please visit here.

The BIO Business Forum also hosts over 140 company presentations which by participating, will allow the Buzz of BIO winners to increase visibility, attract more partners and pitch their company objectives to a global audience representing over sixty countries and various industry investors, research analysts, policy makers and other business development executives.

The BIO International Convention will highlight the latest trends and the newest opportunities for executives, investors, scientists, policy leaders, and media from around the world. Speakers at the sessions will share breakthroughs in medicine, diagnostics, the environment, energy production, business operations, financing, partnerships, policy issues and food and agriculture. The Convention also features the BIO Business Forum, a unique platform for biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, academic research institutions, and investors from around the world to gather and discuss strategic opportunities. For registration, conference agenda and exhibitor information, visit 2012 BIO International Convention.

Upcoming BIO Events

BIO IP Counsels Committee Conference April 16-18, 2012 Austin, TX

World Congress on Industrial Biotechnology & Bioprocessing April 29-May 2, 2012 Orlando, FL

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2012 BIO International Convention Opens Voting April 2nd for the Buzz of BIO

ANN ARBOR, MI--(Marketwire -03/20/12)- MichBio, the biosciences industry association in Michigan, announced today that Dr. Michael Stebbins will be the keynote speaker at its 2012 Annual Business Meeting & Showcase on April 19 at Schoolcraft College in Livonia, MI.

Dr. Stebbins is the Assistant Director for Biotechnology in the Science Division of the White House Office of Science & Technology Policy (OSTP). He brings a unique view of the politics, culture and influence of science, and is a thought leader on wide-reaching topics on science policy, education, and funding. In his White House role, Stebbins serves as a lead policy expert on policies related to biological research and biotechnology.

Before joining the White House OSTP, he served as a science advisor to the Obama Campaign and was a member of the Obama Presidential Transition Team. He was the Director of Biology Policy for the Federation of American Scientists, is a co-founder of Scientists and Engineers for America, and was a former Adjunct Professor of Bioethics at the University of Pennsylvania. He has worked as a policy fellow for the National Human Genome Research Institute and as a Legislative Fellow for Senator Harry Reid. He received his B.S. at SUNY Stony Brook and a Ph.D. in Genetics while working at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.

"Public policy dictates many aspects of bioscience discovery and commercialization," said Stephen Rapundalo, Ph.D., MichBio president and CEO. "No one knows that better than Dr. Stebbins. Specifically, he understands how having a sound science policy can affect the future of America. Mike Stebbins has insightful perspectives on the evolving dynamics playing out towards a national bioeconomy policy, and what that means for U.S. innovation and competitiveness in the global biosciences industry."

Before coming to Washington, Dr. Stebbins was a senior editor for Nature Genetics, worked as a science journalist for Reuters and as a science advisor to ScienCentral News. In addition, he has written for various publications, and was a frequent contributor to This Week in Science, where he discussed issues relating to science and policy.

The MichBio Annual Business Meeting & Showcase attracts over 200 biosciences leaders from around the state. The evening will include a strolling, networking dinner and exhibits followed by brief comments from Dr. Rapundalo. The keynote address will follow.

This year a first-ever Michigan Bio-Talent Summit will precede the Annual Business Meeting from 9 am - 5 pm. The Summit will bring together bio-industry executives, educators, and talent and workforce development stakeholders from around Michigan. Attendees will discuss the bio-industry's current and future talent needs, alignment of curricula with those needs, and best practices in the retention and recruitment of a qualified bioscience workforce.

MichBio is the trade association committed to driving growth of Michigan's biosciences industry. MichBio members include biosciences companies, academic and research institutions, biosciences service providers, and related organizations. For more information, visit http://www.michbio.org.

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White House Biotechnology Director to Keynote 2012 MichBio Annual Business Meeting

13-03-2012 04:36 The last decade has seen a phenomenal growth in the Biotechnology sector in India. Despite the optimism about the future the biggest challenge today is motivation of dynamic minds and building a pool of young professionals with right skill sets. India needs to foster a breed of indigenous talent not only in research and development but also as entrepreneurs, managers and policymakers to ensure a holistic and sustainable growth of biotechnology sector. Biotikos, the annual biotechnology meet, is being organized by the students of M.Sc. Plant Biotechnology, TERI University, to discuss and debate the promises and challenges of this upcoming field. The theme of Biotikos, 2012 is "Biotechnology: Emerging Trends and Opportunities in India". The proposed event on March 15, 2012, Thursday, is aimed at enlightening science undergraduate/post-graduate students about the upcoming areas in biotechnology and the opportunities in India. The day long program will provide a platform for students to interact with representatives from academia, research and industry.

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Biotechnology : Emerging Trends and Opportunities in India - Video

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -03/19/12)- Biotechnology stocks continue to be some of the strongest performers in the markets as favorable legislation out of Washington boosts the sector's reach. The iShares NASDAQ Biotechnology Index (IBB) is currently up more than 16 percent year to date, reflecting an uptick in investor sentiment. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on CEL-SCI Inc. (NASDAQ: CVM - News) & Human Genome Sciences Inc. (NASDAQ: HGSI - News). Access to the full company reports can be found at:

http://www.paragonreport.com/CVM

http://www.paragonreport.com/HGSI

Earlier this month the Biotechnology Industry Organization applauded the Faster Access to Specialized Treatments (FAST) Act. According to BIO the legislation will modernize the Accelerated Approval pathway to expedite the development of modern, targeted, and personalized therapies for patients suffering from serious and life-threatening diseases.

BIO President and CEO Jim Greenwood says the FAST act will speed access to innovative new therapies and cures to patients living with debilitating and life-threatening diseases such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, diabetes and numerous rare diseases for which there is currently no treatment or cure.

The Paragon Report provides investors with an excellent first step in their due diligence by providing daily trading ideas, and consolidating the public information available on them. For more investment research on the biotechnology industry register with us free at http://www.paragonreport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

CEL-SCI Inc.'s lead investigational therapy is Multikine (Leukocyte Interleukin, Injection), currently being studied in a pivotal global Phase III clinical trial. Earlier this month the company reported that it has fully paid off its outstanding convertible debenture. The Company had been making monthly payments of approximately $1 million per month to repay a $9 million convertible debenture which CEL-SCI had issued in connection with the settlement of litigation.

Human Genome Sciences said it lost $81 million, or 41 cents per share, in the fourth quarter of 2011 compared with a loss of $87.6 million, or 46 cents per share, in 2010's fourth quarter. Revenue more than doubled, to $45.5 million from $21.3 million.

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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CEL-SCI and Human Genome Sciences Poised to Benefit From Favorable Legislation

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -03/19/12)- Biotechnology stocks continue to be some of the strongest performers in the markets as favorable legislation out of Washington boosts the sector's reach. The iShares NASDAQ Biotechnology Index (IBB) is currently up more than 16 percent year to date, reflecting an uptick in investor sentiment. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on Cardium Therapeutics Inc. (AMEX: CXM - News) & BioSante Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: BPAX - News). Access to the full company reports can be found at:

http://www.paragonreport.com/CXM

http://www.paragonreport.com/BPAX

Earlier this month the Biotechnology Industry Organization applauded the Faster Access to Specialized Treatments (FAST) Act. According to BIO the legislation will modernize the Accelerated Approval pathway to expedite the development of modern, targeted, and personalized therapies for patients suffering from serious and life-threatening diseases.

BIO President and CEO Jim Greenwood says the FAST act will speed access to innovative new therapies and cures to patients living with debilitating and life-threatening diseases such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, diabetes and numerous rare diseases for which there is currently no treatment or cure.

The Paragon Report provides investors with an excellent first step in their due diligence by providing daily trading ideas, and consolidating the public information available on them. For more investment research on the biotechnology industry register with us free at http://www.paragonreport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Cardium Therapeutics is focused on the acquisition and strategic development of new and innovative bio-medical product opportunities and businesses with the potential to address significant unmet medical needs that have definable pathways to commercialization, partnering and other economic monetizations. Earlier this month the company reported that it is making its MedPodium Nutra-Apps products available across the United States by working with Nutritional Products International (NPI) and InHealth Media.

BioSante is developing a portfolio of cancer vaccines, with 17 Phase I and Phase II clinical trials currently on-going. Four of these vaccines have been granted Orphan Drug designation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Earlier this month the company reported that its net loss was $51.6 million or $0.52 per share for the year ended December 31, 2011, compared to a net loss of $46.2 million or $0.70 per share for 2010.

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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FAST Act to Modernize Approval Process -- Cardium and BioSante Poised to Benefit

19 March 2012

Angel Biotechnology Holdings plc

("Angel" or "the Company")

Notice of EGM

Proposed Placing

The Board of Angel Biotechnology Holdings plc announces that today it has posted a Notice of Extraordinary General Meeting of the Company ("EGM") and a Form of Proxy to Shareholders convening an EGM, to be held at 50 Broadway (SES: E1:B69.SI - news) , London SW1H 0BL on 13 April 2012 at 10am. A copy of the Circular is available from the Company's website, http://www.angelbio.com.

The purpose of the EGM is to consider and, if thought fit, pass a special resolution on the terms set out in the Notice of Extraordinary General Meeting. If passed, it would enable the Board to allot equity securities on a non pre-emptive basis by an aggregate nominal amount of 370,000, which would be in addition to the original nominal amount of 750,000 (the "Authority") granted to the Board at the last Annual General Meeting of the Company ("AGM") held on 8 June 2012. The additional Authority would run until the conclusion of the next AGM at which time Shareholders will be asked to approve new authorities for the following 12 months.

The Company is seeking to raise up to a further 1m through a placing of shares at the same price as the Placing that was announced on 22 December 2011. Following the Placing in December, 175,000 of the original Authority (or 175,000,000 ordinary shares) was left unutilised, which, at the price of the December 2011 Placing, would enable the Company to raise a further 350,000.

However, one of the institutional investors who was not in a position to invest at the time of the December Placing has agreed to invest 360,000, while other institutional investors who supported the December 2011 Placing have asked to provide follow-on investments. These additional investments would be in excess of the remaining original Authority.

On behalf of the Board, Dr. Paul Harper, Executive Chairman, said: "The Placing would further strengthen Angel's shareholder base and provide additional working capital that will enable the Company to respond quickly to new business development opportunities recently available to it. The Directors also believe that in the light of the current uncertain financial markets, it is prudent to raise funds when they become available."

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Angel Biotechnology - Notice of EGM and Proposed Placing

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -03/19/12)- Biotechnology stocks continue to be some of the strongest performers in the markets as favorable legislation out of Washington boosts the sector's reach. The iShares NASDAQ Biotechnology Index (IBB) is currently up more than 16 percent year to date, reflecting an uptick in investor sentiment. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on MannKind Corporation (NASDAQ: MNKD - News) and Celsion Corporation (NASDAQ: CLSN - News). Access to the full company reports can be found at:

http://www.paragonreport.com/MNKD

http://www.paragonreport.com/CLSN

Earlier this month the Biotechnology Industry Organization applauded the Faster Access to Specialized Treatments (FAST) Act. According to BIO the legislation will modernize the Accelerated Approval pathway to expedite the development of modern, targeted, and personalized therapies for patients suffering from serious and life-threatening diseases.

BIO President and CEO Jim Greenwood says the FAST act will speed access to innovative new therapies and cures to patients living with debilitating and life-threatening diseases such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, diabetes and numerous rare diseases for which there is currently no treatment or cure.

The Paragon Report provides investors with an excellent first step in their due diligence by providing daily trading ideas, and consolidating the public information available on them. For more investment research on the biotechnology industry register with us free at http://www.paragonreport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

MannKind Corporation focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialization of therapeutic products for diabetes and cancer in the United States, Europe, and Asia. MannKind did not generate any revenues in the fourth quarter of 2011 -- same as in the year-ago quarter. The net loss applicable to common stockholders for the fourth quarter of 2011 was $36.4 million, or $0.30 per share based on 122.4 million weighted average shares outstanding.

Celsion Corporation develops and commercializes targeted chemotherapeutic oncology drugs based on its proprietary heat-activated liposomal technology. For the year ended December 31, 2011, Celsion reported a net loss of $23.2 million, or $1.11 per share, compared to a net loss of $18.8 million, or $1.52 per share, in 2010.

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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Biotech Stocks on the Upswing as Favorable Legislation Boosts Investor Optimism

SEATTLE, WA--(Marketwire -03/19/12)- Planda Biotechnology, Inc. (OTC.BB: PLPL.OB - News), a producer of highly bioavailable plant extracts, today announced the launch of a new, investor friendly website designed to educate the public about the company's proprietary CRS processing system and the importance of bioavailability in nutrition.

The website is easy to navigate and provides investors with quick access to historical SEC filings and press releases. The website also has several excellent photos of the Senteeko tea estate located in South Africa, along with discussions on the nature of tea production, ongoing research, and the importance of bioavailability. Company contact information and newsletter sign up is also provided.

The benefits of delivering high concentrate bioavailable phytonutrients allow the body to more efficiently absorb the active and stable nutrients and antioxidants. For example, green tea, which is rich in antioxidants critical for protecting white and red blood cells and boosting the body's immune system, is not readily absorbed in its natural state. According to published research, the average person needs to consume 8-10 cups of green tea in order to receive a clinical dose of the necessary gallate catechins. Planda's CRS hydrodynamic process is able to alter the isomeric properties of plant material so that they are more in line with that found in human tissues, thus increasing the absorbability by up to eight times that of other extracts.

Roger Duffield, Chief Executive Officer of Planda, commented, "As a management team, we value the importance of educating the public about bioavailability. Billions of dollars are spent annually on supplements and vitamin-enhanced products, but these are wasted dollars if what is being consumed is not in a form that the body can absorb and process. Our new website will be a useful tool for getting timely information to shareholders and concerned consumers while also providing updates as new research is completed and we draw nearer to full production."

About Plandai Biotechnology, Inc.

Planda Biotechnology, Inc., through its recent acquisition of Global Energy Solutions, Ltd. and its subsidiaries, 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 principal holdings consist of land, farms and infrastructure in South Africa.

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 Planda'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. Planda 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.

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Plandai Biotechnology, Inc. Launches New Investor-Friendly Website

America, the name itself conjures an image of prosperity, high standards of living, a staggering economy, flourishing industries, and everything nice and good. But all these nice and good things were not achieved in a day. It took years of hard work and organization to reach this epoch. Most importantly, this is the fruit of years of continuous research and innovations which have helped this country to surge ahead of the rest in all fields. A few prime gifts of this country to the world includes Internet, and many others as the country gears up to continue its quest to remain not only the most powerful economy but technologically also the country should dig into new found mines of biotechnology. Biotechnology uses micro-organisms and the various biological processes to generate commercially viable bioproducts. At some instances, biotechnology is not used commercially but more importantly just to protect our mother nature and create a greener environment.

Early years

Long before the term biotechnology came into existence, it was indigenously used in various food processing processes like making beer, wine, cheese, etc. Other than that it was used in various aspects of agriculture like selection of high yielding crops, use of legumes to fertilize soil, making natural manures, etc. The advent of modern biotechnology took place in the 1970s. The red wave, in which the potential of biotechnology were appreciated in the field of medicine and put to practical use. The medical industry has found a new direction on the shoulders of biotechnology and surely it’s way ahead is shining bright with the newer discoveries and methodologies. The white wave, the last to strike the field is the industrial application of biotechnology.Yet to build a strong wave and flood the industry and economy with its immense potentialities.

1. Advancement in the field of agriculture

America’s farming is highly mechanized. With that, the use of biotechnology has led to production more than sufficing the needs of the country. High yielding, pest and drought resistant, better nutritional value, altered tasting crops have been produced. This has provided the country food security. And surely in future, with more advancements in biotechnology will take the agriculture up the ladders of prosperity.

2. Advancement in the field of medicine

Currently more than 50% of the biotechnology industry is concentrated in the medical field with the prime work force, staggering growth rate, speedy discoveries and millions of dollars pumped into research. This field has truly bloomed to serve the cause of human health. Genome mapping, monoclonal antibodies, synthesis of antibiotics and artificial hormones, gene therapy, rapid diagnostic methods, anti cancer drugs are the result of the meticulous research in this field. All this helped improve the health of the people and indirectly the nation. The National Alzheimer’s Project Act has been passed to control the disease and at the same time develop new drugs to treat it. Though a lot has been achieved, but this field shouldn’t be allowed to stagnate under any circumstances. As newer resistant viruses and bacteria emerge, the medical force should be prepared with the weapons made from biotechnology.

3. Advancement in the field of industrial application

Industries entirely based on biotech seem just round the corner as the potential of this field are being recognized with rapidity. Biodiesel now, generated at a commercial level can do away with the country’s dependence on the oil supplies from the gulf countries. Also it is a greener technology. Biomining is a method in which a solution of bacteria is used for extraction of metals (copper and gold). Bio-oxidation, a method in which bacteria is used to extract metal from their oxidized form. Both the forms yield high extraction rates upto 85-95%. Bioplastics, enzymes and many other products are awaited to be produced at an industrial level. Jatropha has the potential to replace petroleum as fuel. If the wonders of biotechnology are tapped commercially definitely it would contribute to the flourishing economy of the country. Although its contribution to the country’s GDP is meager, already it is one of the fastest growing sectors employing 130305 in 2005, with a turnover of US $51,655 million the same year. Needless to say that America is leading in all aspects of the biotechnology industry and hopefully it will continue to do so.

Last but not the least

Recently, America is facing steep competition from other developing nations like India and China and so the country needs to be on its toes. The current policies of the Barak Obama government are very favorable for extensive research and large amount of investments in the field. The other brighter side of this industry is the employment it is generating which has become particularly very important after the unemployment during and after recession. The upcoming new industries, the health and as well as the agriculture sector depend hugely on the advancements of biotechnology, so extensive research is being undertaken at all levels. The National Institute of Health is instituted for biotechnology training programs. Lastly the future of NASA, America’s prime space agency, also rests on newer biotech products as it aims to sustain life for a prolonged period outside earth. We hope that biotechnology will bloom to the most beautiful and prosperous future of America.

Source:
http://www.biotechblog.org/rss.xml

Biotechnology, as the term indicates, is the technical use of living organisms and biological processes for obtaining bio products. These products are used in the field of medicine, agriculture and industries. Biotechnology has been used in various day to day processes since time immemorial. From preparation of wine, cheese, curing of tea leaves to natural manures and jute processing, the knowledge of biology has been put to effective use in the various spheres of our lives. With the advent of modern biotechnology in the 1980s, this field has seen a great boom in its totality. The first major footprint of this modern era is believed to have begun when the American Supreme Court granted patent to Ananda Chakraborty for the genetically modified Pseudomona species capable of breaking down crude oil. Ever since it has spread its root wide in every possible field. Hence, now it is being considered as a bright prospect for the future industries.

The statistics

Recently, the reports of a study on the economic viability of biotechnology, conducted by the Centre for the study of Living Standards (a nonprofit Canadian organization aimed at economic research), was published. It was based on the figures provided by the Statistics Canada’s Biotech Use and Development Survey (BUDS). The research was headed by economist Ricardo de Avellez. The study showed great promise in the field with a forecast of $144 billion industry by 2030 at an average growth rate of 9.4%. Canada, being the world’s 10th largest economy, though generates only 1.19% of the total economy GDP from the biotechnology industry, it has seen phenomenal GDP growth at 10.7% between 1999-2007 preceded only by the mining and oil and gas extraction industry at 20.5%. This shows the rich economical implications that this field awaits in the mere future. In 2005 the number of innovative biotech firms increased from 358 in 1999 to 532, almost a 50% growth. Besides the impressive GDP, the employment that the industry has generated around itself is also a boon. Around 13,500 employees were employed in the various firms in 2005, a 74% increase from the figures in 1999. This figure definitely points to the immense potential of this yet to be explored field.

Biotechnology started in three different waves in three different time periods but now they overlap:

1. The Green Wave-Agricultural Biotechnology

This has been there right from the cradle of ancient civilizations. Nowadays with the development of genetically modified crops better yielding, pest resistant, seed less crops are being yielded. Only 20.1% firms and 9.8% of the work force are involved in the agricultural biotechnology and it generates 24.6% of the total revenue. Surely this field has a greater potential and would play an important role in meeting the food demands of the future.

2. The Red Wave-Medical Biotechnology

This field has seen the greatest growth. 58.3% of the biotech companies were involved in the health care system. A majority of 80.9% employees lent their workforce and it generated 70.6% of the revenue. The obvious reasons for its growth are the vaccines, artificial hormones, diagnostic tests, genetically tailored medicine and the list goes on.

3. The White Wave, the most recent Industrial Biotechnology

It is particular to term this a virgin field as its potential has been put to use the least whereas this is the field which shows the greatest promise. From development of biomining to bioremediation, from biofuels to biosensors, this field is teeming with unexplored industrial potentialities. With a small amount of industries into it, the field actually has seen a 10.1% decline in its revenues.

The bottomline

Biotechnology will definitely play a significant role in the country’s economy as more industries based on it will come up. Also the need for sustainable systems and cleaner and greener technology will provide impetus to this versatile field. Combined with the rich abundant natural resources, biotechnology will take the country a long way.

Source:
http://www.biotechblog.org/rss.xml

Background:
In mixed sugar fermentations with recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains able to ferment D-xylose and L-arabinose the pentose sugars are normally only utilized after depletion of D-glucose. This has been attributed to competitive inhibition of pentose uptake by D-glucose as pentose sugars are taken up into yeast cells by individual members of the yeast hexose transporter family. We wanted to investigate whether D-glucose inhibits pentose utilization only by blocking its uptake or also by interfering with its further metabolism.
Results:
To distinguish between inhibitory effects of D-glucose on pentose uptake and pentose catabolism, maltose was used as an alternative carbon source in maltose-pentose co-consumption experiments. Maltose is taken up by a specific maltose transport system and hydrolyzed only intracellularly into two D-glucose molecules. Pentose consumption decreased by about 20 - 30% during the simultaneous utilization of maltose indicating that hexose catabolism can impede pentose utilization. To test whether intracellular D-glucose might impair pentose utilization, hexo-/glucokinase deletion mutants were constructed. Those mutants are known to accumulate intracellular D-glucose when incubated with maltose. However, pentose utilization was not effected in the presence of maltose. Addition of increasing concentrations of D-glucose to the hexo-/glucokinase mutants finally completely blocked D-xylose as well as L-arabinose consumption, indicating a pronounced inhibitory effect of D-glucose on pentose uptake. Nevertheless, constitutive overexpression of pentose-transporting hexose transporters like Hxt7 and Gal2 could improve pentose consumption in the presence of D-glucose.
Conclusion:
Our results confirm that D-glucose impairs the simultaneous utilization of pentoses mainly due to inhibition of pentose uptake. Whereas intracellular D-glucose does not seem to have an inhibitory effect on pentose utilization, further catabolism of D-glucose can also impede pentose utilization. Nevertheless, the results suggest that co-fermentation of pentoses in the presence of D-glucose can significantly be improved by the overexpression of pentose transporters, especially if they are not inhibited by D-glucose.Source:
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Background:
The commercialization of second-generation bioethanol has not been realized due to several factors, including poor biomass utilization and high production cost. It is generally accepted that the most important parameters in reducing the production cost are the ethanol yield and the ethanol concentration in the fermentation broth. Agricultural residues contain large amounts of hemicellulose, and the utilization of xylose is thus a plausible way to improve the concentration and yield of ethanol during fermentation. Most naturally occurring ethanol-fermenting microorganisms do not utilize xylose, but a genetically modified yeast strain, TMB3400, has the ability to co-ferment glucose and xylose. However, the xylose uptake rate is only enhanced when the glucose concentration is low.
Results:
Separate hydrolysis and co-fermentation of steam-pretreated wheat straw (SPWS) combined with wheat-starch hydrolysate feed was performed in two separate processes. The average yield of ethanol and the xylose consumption reached 86% and 69%, respectively, when the hydrolysate of the enzymatically hydrolyzed (18.5% WIS) unwashed SPWS solid fraction and wheat-starch hydrolysate were fed to the fermentor after 1 h of fermentation of the SPWS liquid fraction. In the other configuration, fermentation of the SPWS hydrolysate (7.0% WIS), resulted in an average ethanol yield of 93% from fermentation based on glucose and xylose and complete xylose consumption when wheat-starch hydrolysate was included in the feed. Increased initial cell density in the fermentation (from 5 to 20 g/L) did not increase the ethanol yield, but improved and accelerated xylose consumption in both cases.
Conclusions:
Higher ethanol yield has been achieved in co-fermentation of xylose and glucose in SPWS hydrolysate when wheat-starch hydrolysate was used as feed, then in co-fermentation of the liquid fraction of SPWS fed with the mixed hydrolysates. Integration of first-generation and second-generation processes also increases the ethanol concentration, resulting in a reduction in the cost of the distillation step, thus improving the process economics.Source:
http://www.biotechnologyforbiofuels.com/rss/

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Biofuel and renewable chemical company executives along with consumer product companies seeking partnerships in the renewable sector will be featured at BIOs 9th annual World Congress on Industrial Biotechnology and Bioprocessing, in Orlando, Fla., April 29 - May 2 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center. Online registration for the conference is now open.

Brent Erickson, executive vice president of BIOs Industrial & Environmental Section, said, We are excited to bring this conference to Orlando to highlight the industry's growth, particularly in the Southeast region. Industrial and environmental biotechnology is revitalizing manufacturing and creating new opportunities for agriculture, generating jobs, making greener products and cleaner processes, all aimed at building a biobased economy.

BIOs World Congress will host the following sessions with companies representing the Southeast:

Toward a Billion Tons: Biomass & Purpose Grown Energy Crops Monday, April 30, 2:30pm 4:00pm

Fuels and Chemicals from Residues and MSW Tuesday, May 1, 8:30am 10:00am

Whats Driving Demand for Biotech Products: A Customers Perspective? Wednesday, May 2, 12:00pm 2:15pm

The worlds largest industrial biotechnology conference for business leaders, investors, academics and policymakers in biofuels, biobased products, renewable chemicals, synthetic biology, food ingredients and biomass comes to Orlando, Fla., April 29 - May 2 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center. Please visit http://www.bio.org/worldcongress/ for additional information, or email worldcongress@bio.org.

Online pre-registration for reporters and editors is now open. All breakout and plenary sessions at the BIO World Congress on Industrial Biotechnology and Bioprocessing are open to attendance by members of the media. Complimentary media registration is available to editors and reporters with valid press credentials working full time for print, broadcast or web publications.

About BIO

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BIO’s 9th Annual World Congress Shows Strength of Industrial Biotech and Biofuels in Southeast United States

12-03-2012 12:07 In this session Mr. Workman describes three main types of cloning. 1) Gene cloning, 2) Reproductive cloning, & 3) Therapeutic cloning. Horticultural plant cloning, natural and induced twinning and somatic cell nuclear transfer are types of reproductive cloning processes discussed. This ScreenCast was recorded with Camtasia software and uploaded to YouTube thereafter .

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Biotechnology screencast session 4 - Video

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

With the global demand for biotechnology solutions to mounting health concerns growing every day, Rainbow Coral Corp. (OTCBB: RBCC.OB - News) has been working hard to deliver the kinds of breakthroughs that doctors, scientists, and researchers the world over are begging for.

Today, Rainbow BioSciences, the biotech division of Rainbow Coral Corp. (OTCBB: RBCC.OB - News) announced that it has signed a deal to acquire an interest in the cutting-edge biotech firm Nano3D Biosciences, Inc. (n3D). One of the hottest emerging biotech developers in the world, n3D is producing new tools that could challenge long-held assumptions about healthcareand change lives in the process.

The agreement is the culmination of months of work and negotiations. N3D is a terrific fit with RBCCs aggressive focus on company growth. The companys new breakthrough cell-culturing technology, the Bio-Assembler, is fully commercialized already. RBCCs participation will provide n3D with the funds for marketing and distributing the Bio-Assembler to new markets as cellular research in the biotech sector explodes around the globe.

The acquisition has RBCC well-positioned to participate in the potentially dramatic upside that many bioscience companies realize at this stage. N3Ds Bio-Assembler could be poised to revolutionize the way stem cell research and the study of other living tissues is conducted worldwide, with the potential to ultimately reduce the development timeline for new life-saving drug therapies.

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

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

About Rainbow BioSciences

Rainbow BioSciences, LLC, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rainbow Coral Corp. (OTCBB: RBCC.OB - News). 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.

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

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RBCC Closes Deal with Game Changing Biotech Firm

08-03-2012 18:18 This screencast focuses on Gene Therapy and Genetically Engineered Vaccines.

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Biotechnology Screencast Session 3.m4v - Video

SEATTLE, WA--(Marketwire -03/14/12)- Planda Biotechnology, Inc. (OTC.BB: PLPL.OB - News) director, Dr. Ming Hu, recently addressed his published study on the bioavailability of flavonoids and polyphenols and its importance on human health and nutrition.

Dietary polyphenols are derived from plants and are consumed in the forms of fruits, vegetables, spices, and herbs. Collectively they are a main source of antioxidants for humans and are responsible for a variety of biological activities, ranging from anti-aging and anticancer to lowering of blood cholesterol levels and improving bone strength. Millions of women also take a subclass of polyphenols called phytoestrogens to relieve symptoms associated with menopause.

Bioavailability is the body's ability to absorb various nutrients consumed. For most dietary antioxidants, less than five percent of the nutrients are actually absorbed, resulting in the need to consume massive dosages to achieve a clinical effect. Additionally, certain additives, including sugars and dairy, can neutralize the anti-oxidant properties. In the case of green tea, which has become hugely popular as a dietary supplement, you need to consume 8-10 cups a day; but if your green tea is sweetened, it may be useless. According to Dr. Hu's study, historically very little attention has been paid to increasing bioavailability. He asks the question, are these flavonoids and polyphenols as effective as people believe?

Typical polyphenols have oral bioavailability (mostly in animals) of 10% or less, and a range of 2-20% is quite common. For polyphenols to become bioavailable, the following barriers must be overcome: solubility, permeability, metabolism, excretion, target tissue uptake, and disposition.

Planda's proprietary CRS processing system is specifically designed to alter the stereochemical structure of the polyphenols into a ratio more readily absorbable by human tissue. For practical purposes, the converted phytonutrients should be five to eight times more bioavailable than traditional extracts, resulting in a clinical dose being more readily available and affordable as an additive to a variety of beverages, supplements and nutriceuticals.

Chief Executive Officer, Roger Duffield, commented, "We are at the forefront of developing enhanced bioavailable products which, we believe, can revolutionize the nutritional supplement and health drink marketplace. As more research is conducted, such as that done by Dr. Hu, people will be forced to examine what they consume and start to demand products that are based on science rather that slick marketing."

About Planda Biotechnology, Inc.

Planda Biotechnology, Inc., through its recent acquisition of Global Energy Solutions, Ltd. and its subsidiaries, 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 principal holdings consist of land, farms and infrastructure in South Africa.

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 Planda'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. Planda 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.

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Plandai Biotechnology, Inc. Director Dr. Ming Hu Study Demonstrates Significance of Bioavailability