Latest news with #genomics
Yahoo
20 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Personalis to Announce Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results
FREMONT, Calif., July 22, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Personalis, Inc. (Nasdaq: PSNL), a leader in advanced genomics for cancer, announced today that it will release its second quarter 2025 financial results on Tuesday, August 5, 2025. In conjunction with the release, Personalis will host a conference call and webcast that day at 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time / 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time to discuss its financial results and recent highlights. Interested parties may access the call by dialing 877-451-6152 for domestic callers or 201-389-0879 for international callers. The webinar of the call may be accessed by visiting the Events section of the company's website at A replay of the webinar will be available shortly after the conclusion of the call and will be archived on the company's website. About Personalis, Inc. At Personalis, we are transforming the active management of cancer through breakthrough personalized testing. We aim to drive a new paradigm for cancer management, guiding care from biopsy through the life of the patient. Our highly sensitive assays combine tumor-and-normal profiling with proprietary algorithms to deliver advanced insights even as cancer evolves over time. Our products are designed to detect minimal residual disease (MRD) and recurrence at the earliest timepoints, enable selection of targeted therapies based on ultra-comprehensive genomic profiling, and enhance biomarker strategy for drug development. Personalis is based in Fremont, California. To learn more, visit and connect with us on LinkedIn and X (Twitter). View source version on Contacts Investors: Caroline Corner investors@ 415-202-5678 Media: pr@
Medscape
2 days ago
- Health
- Medscape
The Ethical Minefield of Genetic Testing for All
Dr Arya Anthony Kamyab Imagine being able to screen an embryo's DNA and predict the likelihood of developing diseases such as diabetes or schizophrenia. DNA technology has been knocking on the door of health innovation for some time, and it looks as though it has finally arrived in the NHS. The government's 10 Year Health Plan for England aims to 'provide a genomic test for every newborn baby by 2035,' Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting confirmed to the House of Commons this month. This would require redesigning our current practice. At present, when babies are born, the heel-prick test screens for nine rare conditions using biochemical markers. The plan to introduce genetic testing will entail all newborns in England having DNA screening which, rather than looking for chemical markers, uses whole genome sequencing to look for changes in genes associated with more than 200 conditions that can be improved if identified early. Genetic screening is not intended to replace the heel-prick test, which will continue to be carried out regardless of whether parents decide to opt out of genomic screening. Genomics England is helping lead research. It's 100,000 Genomes Project has sequenced more than 85,000 participants' genomes, with 18.5% of data so far turned into actionable findings. The Generation Study from Genomics England plans to build on these foundations to sequence the genomes of a similar number of newborn babies. This genomics information will be interpreted through AI to help predict and avert genetic illness before the onset of symptoms. Predictive Power DNA is not a deterministic code with a unique ability to predict the future. Modern science has linked certain genetic variants to specific diseases. However, countless others — known as variants of uncertain significance — remain unclassified, their potential harmful, neutral, or beneficial. Some of these variants, which currently evade our 21st century understanding of genetics, will inevitably be associated with diseases. This project could undoubtably illuminate many of those missing gaps and transform our knowledge of inherited risk. So, what undermines DNA's predictive value in determining who we grow up to be? We can break the answer down into three reasons: incomplete penetrance, variable expressivity, and being heavily shaped by environment. Incomplete penetrance is a fancy term used by geneticists. It refers to a scenario in which individuals carry a specific genetic mutation but do not always express the associated disease or trait. We see this with the BRCA1 gene, which increases the risk for breast and ovarian cancer, but not all carriers develop these diseases. Then we have variable expressivity, which often gets confused for penetrance but is a distinct concept. Where penetrance concerns itself with whether the trait (or condition) will appear, expressivity describes its severity or types of symptoms once present. Finally, the interplay between genes and environment is vital for the presence of disease. But have you ever considered how the knowledge of genetic susceptibility may affect one's behaviour? If you were to know that your genes confer a greater risk for, say, diabetes, could that lead to behaviour modification? Fewer takeaways and more exercise? The Ethical Minefield Make no mistake, having access to genetic information will save lives and reduce suffering. It will further our understanding of genetics, a foundational pillar of medical science. This doesn't make the debate a foregone conclusion, however, as the ethical terrain is incredibly complex. The Generation Study is not sequencing parents' genes. However, it would mean universal screening of babies' genomes before they can consent. Few could argue that telling parents that their child has a noncurable condition will unleash significant anxiety and stress. Some may argue it is not worth the potential benefits, while others may prioritise the long-term gains in scientific advancement. Research published in the Nature journal European Journal of Human Genetics suggests that most parents would plan to tell their children their screening results in childhood, whilst some would postpone this news due to the potential negative impacts it may have on their self-esteem. Perhaps, then, this scheme should report only on a predefined panel of conditions where early treatment makes a significant impact on outcomes. What makes a disease "treatable" or not is also not black and white and will raise further difficult questions. But this is where we have to be careful. The argument against screening for diseases that are not treatable in 2025 overlooks the fact that such programmes generate valuable data, which can play a role in the development of future breakthroughs and therapies. Consider knowledge as a burden for a moment. We know of genetic variants that are associated with Alzheimer's disease. How are parents supposed to raise a child that they know has a genetically increased risk of developing Alzheimer's? For some, the answer is simple: Do nothing. The exact cause of Alzheimer's is not understood, which means there is no certain way to prevent it. But this reductionist approach of simply deciding to do nothing is much easier said than done. Regardless of whether you choose to report on only a predefined panel of conditions, patients will know that the data exist. Once the genome is sequenced, it cannot be unsequenced. Doctors, geneticists, and academics will have to carry the moral burden of knowing more than they can responsibly act on. And what about patients? If they know that the data exist but are withheld because conditions are deemed nonactionable, what will stop them demanding the information and paying a third party to interpret the results? If so, we risk creating a two-tier system where genomic knowledge is in the hands of the most affluent. The Slippery Slope to Discrimination The most common fear that populates headlines is the misuse of genetic data. A reference to George Orwell's 1984 is never too far when data acquisition for 'the greater good' is mentioned. Maybe we can begin a new movement, calling this Orwell's Law? But this concern deserves to be taken seriously. In philosophy, a slippery-slope argument is when a decision is rejected because the arguer believes it will lead to a chain reaction that results in an undesirable end. The issue with slippery-slope fallacies is that they are incredibly easy to make and the proponents often fail to do the hard work of logically connecting each step to show why one outcome would lead to the next. So, are the concerns legitimate? Genetic test results can affect insurance policies. In the UK, insurers cannot ask you to take a genetic test, but they can ask for results of a test if you have already taken one. If genetic testing becomes widespread, it may prove difficult to keep this information from insurers. Others may also want access. Genomic data are akin to your identity. The acquisition of this information creates a layer of vulnerability that understandably makes many nervous. Could employers make decisions on whether to hire someone with a predisposition to a mental illness, for instance? And yet despite all this, it would be terse to flat-out ignore what this technology may be able to bring. Identification of, say, spinal muscle atrophy at a presymptomatic stage can significantly improve outcomes and slow the progression of disease. This debate is complex but at the same time fascinating. We are remoulding healthcare and shifting the timescale for where medicine begins. But this comes with risk and ethical questions.
Globe and Mail
2 days ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
ProPhase Labs Board of Directors Authorizes Management to Explore Strategic Reverse Merger and Approves Crypto Treasury Initiative
UNIONDALE, NY, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ProPhase Labs, Inc. (NASDAQ: PRPH), (the 'Company' or 'ProPhase') a next generation biotech, genomics and consumer products company, today announced that its Board of Directors has unanimously authorized the Company's executive team to explore a potential reverse merger transaction with a digital asset-focused operating company to supplement its existing businesses. The Board has also approved a strategic treasury initiative involving the acquisition and long-term holding of select digital assets, including Bitcoin. This initiative represents management's view that a diversified treasury strategy that includes digital assets may enhance long-term shareholder value. The potential reverse merger transaction the Board authorized management to explore would involve combining with a company that maintains a cryptocurrency-focused treasury management and digital asset strategy. This strategic review reflects the Board's interest in identifying complementary growth opportunities that could enhance long-term shareholder value and broaden the Company's market positioning. 'At a time when digital assets and blockchain-native strategies are gaining broader institutional traction, we believe it is prudent to assess opportunities at the intersection of life sciences and financial innovation,' said Ted Karkus, Chief Executive Officer of ProPhase Labs. 'We look forward to evaluating whether such a transaction could provide a platform for scalable value creation.' CEO Karkus continued 'The beauty of this strategic initiative is that we can potentially create additional shareholder value with a goal of maintaining the vast majority of the value of the existing assets for the existing shareholders. This would include the Crown Medical Collections initiative to collect up to $50 million dollars net to the Company for its outstanding COVID accounts receivable, the Nebula Genomics strategic alternatives initiative, and the commercialization of the BE-Smart ™ Esophageal cancer test.' The Company has not entered into any binding agreement at this time and there can be no assurance that any transaction will occur. Management has been authorized to conduct diligence, engage potential counterparties, and evaluate whether such a transaction would be in the best interests of shareholders. The Company will provide additional updates as material developments occur. About ProPhase Labs Inc. ProPhase Labs Inc. (Nasdaq: PRPH) ('ProPhase') is a next-generation biotech, genomics and consumer products company. Our mission is to build a healthier world through bold innovation and actionable insight. We're revolutionizing healthcare with industry-leading Whole Genome Sequencing solutions, groundbreaking diagnostic development – such as our potentially life-saving test for the early detection of esophageal cancer – and a world class direct-to-consumer marketing platform for cutting edge OTC dietary supplements. We develop, manufacture, and commercialize health and wellness solutions to enable people to live their best lives. We are committed to executional excellence, smart diversification, and a synergistic, omni-channel approach. ProPhase Labs' valuable subsidiaries, their synergies, and significant growth underscore our potential for long-term value. Forward-Looking Statements Except for the historical information contained herein, this document contains forward looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding our strategy, plans, objectives and initiatives, including our expectations regarding the future revenue growth potential of each of our subsidiaries, our expected timeline for commercializing our BE-Smart Esophageal Cancer Test, our expectations regarding future liquidity events, the success of our efforts to collect accounts receivables and anticipated timeline for any payments relating thereto, our ability to successfully transition into a consumer products company, our newly approved crypto treasury strategy, and the potential reverse merger transaction we are exploring. Management believes that these forward-looking statements are reasonable as and when made. However, such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to our ability to obtain and maintain necessary regulatory approvals, general economic conditions, consumer demand for our products and services, challenges relating to entering into and growing new business lines, the competitive environment, cryptocurrency volatility and regulatory risks, and the risk factors listed from time to time in our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and any other SEC filings. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by applicable securities laws. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Cathie Wood drops $36 million on her favorite stock
Cathie Wood drops $36 million on her favorite stock originally appeared on TheStreet. Cathie Wood isn't in the investing game to play safe. Though others gravitate towards benchmarks, she hunts moonshots, betting big on the businesses that could reshape entire industries. 💵💰💰💵 Her powerful playbook layers high conviction, deep patience, and rare transparency, which is often both admired and misunderstood. Wood's strategy has typically stuck with high-impact names through the storm. And this week, she ramped up her stake in a familiar name that has long defined her strategy. Cathie Wood's rise as a pioneer of disruptive investing Cathie Wood has made a name for herself by being a trailblazer in active management, leaning on breakthrough tech that few others dare touch. She rejects benchmarks, zeroes in on AI, genomics, automation, and other seismic shifts that are poised to reshape sectors. Her mantra is that exponential change drives outsized gains. While the majority typically chase a stable yield, Wood looks for companies she projects can double in value within five instead of spreading tiny bets, she focuses on a dozen or so high‑conviction names. This combination of focus and scale can effectively supercharge winners, though it magnifies losses, too. Patience matters the most, though. She counsels investors to 'own it, don't trade it,' urging patience on the rougher days, letting her ride the choppiness toward major inflection points. Transparency is another big part of Wood's philosophy. ARK publishes daily holdings, white papers, podcasts, and scenario models in fostering an open‑book style. On top of that, the contrarian courage doesn't hurt, either. When the bears dismissed electric vehicles, ARK doubled down on Tesla () . While others dismissed cryptocurrency, she backed blockchain. More Tech Stock News: Cathie Wood drops bold message on Apple, Tesla stock Unsung AI stock pops after joining S&P 500 Wall Street giant shares bold message on S&P 500's Magnificent 7 Moreover, ARK's thematic ETFs, including Innovation, Genomics, Internet, Autonomous Tech, and Fintech, are each channeling a distinct revolution, letting investors target singular breakthroughs. All in all, Wood's style isn't cozy. Volatility is the norm, and big swings test nerves. Yet die‑hard fans see bumps along the way as the price of admission for potential generational gains. Love it or loathe it, her mindset has made ARK Invest virtually impossible to ignore. Cathie Wood doubles down on Tesla stock ahead of earnings Cathie Wood isn't backing off Tesla; she's buying in deeper. The Ark Invest founder just added another 115,380 Tesla shares on July 15 across two of her flagship funds. The buy totaled roughly $36 million ( $35.86 million to be exact), per Ark's daily trade disclosures. That follows close to 60,000 shares scooped up July 11, showing a clear signal that Wood sees value as Tesla stock tries to stabilize. As of July 16, Tesla occupies the top spot in ARK Innovation's holdings, making up 9.78% of the portfolio. In ARK Next Gen Internet, it ranks third with a 7.56% will be posting its earnings report on July 23. Analysts forecast a 23% drop in quarterly earnings and a 14% decline in sales, according to FactSet. That's a steep bar to clear, but one that may have already been priced into the stock. To be fair, the EV leader's price action has been remarkably volatile. After rallying from late April to late May on Elon Musk's pledge to retreat from his political shenanigans, shares dropped again as his ongoing spat with President Donald Trump flared back up. Still, TSLA has bounced 22% in the past three months. However, on a year-to-date basis, the stock remains down over 20%. Wood has been a longtime defender of Tesla's innovation edge, particularly in AI, robotics, and full self-driving technology. Consequently, Tesla stock has been her favorite investment over the years. That said, whether the earnings report on July 23 delivers or not, Wood is clearly betting that Tesla's near-term pain could be a long-term Wood drops $36 million on her favorite stock first appeared on TheStreet on Jul 17, 2025 This story was originally reported by TheStreet on Jul 17, 2025, where it first appeared. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Forbes
14-07-2025
- Health
- Forbes
Rewriting Genetic Fate: Universal Newborn Genomic Screening Arrives
Tiny baby in grey clothes sleeps on woolen blanket In Destiny's Child No Longer: Rewriting Genetic Fate, we envisioned a world where every newborn would be screened for genetic risks. We see a future in which the randomness of genetic inheritance could be met with knowledge, preparation, and, ultimately, intervention. Today, that vision is rapidly becoming reality on both sides of the Atlantic. The United Kingdom's National Health Service (NHS) has announced a landmark plan to offer whole genome sequencing to every newborn. At the same time, Florida's Sunshine Genetics Act has set the stage for a statewide pilot of newborn genomic screening. These developments are a shift in public health. They stand to transform the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of rare diseases for generations to UK's Ambitious National Rollout The NHS's new initiative will, over the next decade, provide every newborn in England with comprehensive DNA analysis. This effort builds on the success of the Generation Study. This program sequenced the genomes of 100,000 infants to screen for over 200 rare, treatable genetic conditions. The government has committed £650 million to this program, aiming to move beyond the current heel-prick blood test—which screens for just nine conditions—to a system capable of detecting hundreds of single-gene disorders and risk factors for complex diseases. The program is shifting the NHS from reactive care to proactive, personalized healthcare. By identifying disease risks at birth, the NHS hopes to reduce the burden of illness and extending healthy lifespans. The UK's ambitious newborn genome sequencing program is set to make every newborn in England eligible for whole genome sequencing by 2030. This comprehensive framework positions the UK as a global leader in genomic medicine. Furthmore it is setting a precedent for how large-scale, ethically responsible genetic screening can be integrated into national healthcare systems for the benefit of future Sunshine Genetics Act: A U.S. Model Emerges Across the Atlantic, Florida has surged to the forefront of rare disease research with the passage of the Sunshine Genetics Act. Signed into law in July 2025, this legislation launches a five-year pilot program to sequence the genomes of newborns statewide. The Act allocates $3 million to the Sunshine Genetics Pilot Program. It establishes the Florida Institute for Pediatric Rare Diseases at Florida State University, with additional funding from both state and university sources. The program also focuses on ensuring participation remains voluntary and contingent upon parental consent. The Sunshine Genetics Consortium, formed under the Act, unites leading researchers, clinicians, and biotech innovators from across Florida's top institutions. Their mission: to accelerate diagnosis, pioneer new treatments, and end the diagnostic odyssey faced by families affected by one of the more than 7,000 rare diseases impacting 30 million and Future Directions The initiative by the UK and Florida represents a true shift, one that we predicted, in how we approach disease. Early results from multiple studies have shown that genome sequencing can identify actionable conditions and diseases. Furthermore, genome sequencing can identify these conditions far sooner than traditional screening methods. This enables interventions that can alter the course of a child's life. That said, the path to this new approach is not without challenges. As always, there are ethical concerns to address, including consent, privacy, and the potential for genetic discrimination. All these concerns require oversight, thought, and care. Additionally, equitable access to these technologies is another concern, which is important globally and will remain a pressing issue as new technologies emerge. Ongoing research and public dialogue will be essential to ensure that the benefits of genomic medicine are realized for the Science Consider the story of a family whose newborn was diagnosed with a rare metabolic disorder through genomic screening, years before symptoms would have appeared. Early intervention allowed for dietary modifications that prevented irreversible neurological damage. Stories like these are increasingly common as these programs expand. They underscore the human impact of scientific progress. As predicted in Destiny's Child No Longer, the era of universal newborn genomic screening is dawning. The UK and Florida are leading the way. They demonstrate both the promise and the responsibility that comes with rewriting genetic fate. Their experiences will inform global efforts. They will shape a future where every child's genetic destiny is not only known but can be changed for the better.
