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Kanazawa University research: Chromatin Accessibility: A new avenue for gene editing

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KANAZAWA, Japan, Feb. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — In a study recently published in Nature Genetics, researchers from Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University explore chromatin accessibility, i.e., endogenous access pathways to the genomic DNA, and its use as a tool for gene editing.

Our DNA is protected from unwanted external modifications by forming structures called nucleosomes that consist of threads of DNA wound around chunks of special proteins known as histones. This unique coiled shape prevents the access of undesirable molecules to a cell’s DNA. However, for vital genetic functions—such as DNA repair—the right set of proteins require access to these DNA fragments. This phenomenon known as ‘chromatin accessibility’ involves a privileged set of protein molecules, many of which are still unknown.

Now, researchers from Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University, led by Yusuke Miyanari, have used advanced genetic screening methods to unravel chromatin accessibility and its pathways.

For the investigation the team used a combination of two technologies—CRISPR screening and ATAC-see. While the former is a method to suppress the function of a desired set of genes, the latter is a means to identify which ones are essential for chromatin accessibility. Thus, using this method all genes playing a crucial role in chromatin accessibility could be pinned down.

With the help of these assays, novel pathways and individual players involved in chromatin accessibility were uncovered—some playing a positive role and some negative. Of these, one particular protein, TFDP1, showed a negative effect on chromatin accessibility. When it was suppressed, a significant increase in chromatin accessibility was observed, accompanied by nucleosome reduction. A deeper dive into the mechanism of TFDP1 revealed that it functions by regulating the genes responsible for production of certain histone proteins.

The team then focused their study towards exploring biotechnological applications of their findings. After suppressing TFDP1, two different approaches were tried. The first approach involved gene editing using the CRISPR/Cas9 tool. This revealed that deletion of TFDP1 made the gene editing process easier. Now, most chromatin accessibility occurs in nucleosome-depleted regions or NDRs. However, by suppressing TFDP1 chromatin accessibility occurred not only in NDRs but across other regions as well. Secondly, the depletion of TFDP1 aided the process of converting regular cells into stem cells, a massive step forward in cellular transformation.

This study identified new chromatin accessibility pathways and channels for exploring its potential even further. “Our study shows the significant potential to manipulate chromatin accessibility as a novel strategy to enhance DNA-templated biological applications, including genome editing and cellular reprogramming,” conclude the researchers.

Background

CRISPR screening: CRISPR screening is a large-scale tool used to find genes involved in a particular function. In this method, genes from the entire genome can be deleted one at a time to investigate which ones play a role in any target pathway. The mechanisms and roles of the genes narrowed down are then understood further using biological assays. In this study the genes identified by CRISPR screening were subjected to ATAC-see to confirm their involvement with chromatin accessibility.

ATAC-see: Transposase-Accessible Chromatin with visualization (ATAC-see) is a technique whereby accessible DNA locations can be visualized and quantified. ATAC-see involves using an enzyme to insert fluorescent proteins into the DNA at accessible sites. This technique works within nucleosome-depleted regions but also beyond these regions. Hence, when such sites were visualized after running CRISPR screening, the researchers could understand which genes were affecting chromatin accessibility directly.

Reference

Satoko Ishii, Taishi Kakizuka, Sung-Joon Park, Ayako Tagawa, Chiaki Sanbo, Hideyuki Tanabe, Yasuyuki Ohkawa, Mahito Nakanishi, Kenta Nakai, Yusuke Miyanari. Genome-wide ATAC-see screening identifies TFDP1 as a modulator of global chromatin accessibility. Nature Genetics, 2024. Published Feb 15, 2024

DOI :10.1038/s41588-024-01658-1

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41588-024-01658-1

Related figures

https://nanolsi.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/wp/wp-content/uploads/Fig.-1-1.png

Figure 1. a. Screening results of the players involved in chromatin accessibility analyzed by ATAC-see.

b. Successful reprogramming to stem cells (indicated by presence of TRA-1-60) after depletion of TFDP1 (right).

© 2024 Ishii, et al., Nature Genetics

Contact
Hiroe Yoneda
Senior Specialist in Project Planning and Outreach
NanoLSI Administration OfficeNano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI)
Kanazawa University
Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan
Email: nanolsi-office@adm.kanazawa-u.ac.jp
Tel: +81 (76) 234-4555

About Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University

Understanding nanoscale mechanisms of life phenomena by exploring “uncharted nano-realms.”

Cells are the basic units of almost all life forms. We are developing nanoprobe technologies that allow direct imaging, analysis, and manipulation of the behavior and dynamics of important macromolecules in living organisms, such as proteins and nucleic acids, at the surface and interior of cells. We aim at acquiring a fundamental understanding of the various life phenomena at the nanoscale.

https://nanolsi.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/en/

About the World Premier International Research Center Initiative (WPI)

The WPI program was launched in 2007 by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) to foster globally visible research centers boasting the highest standards and outstanding research environments. Numbering more than a dozen and operating at institutions throughout the country, these centers are given a high degree of autonomy, allowing them to engage in innovative modes of management and research. The program is administered by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS).

See the latest research news from the centers at the WPI News Portal: https://www.eurekalert.org/newsportal/WPI

Main WPI program site:  www.jsps.go.jp/english/e-toplevel

About Kanazawa University

As the leading comprehensive university on the Sea of Japan coast, Kanazawa University has contributed greatly to higher education and academic research in Japan since it was founded in 1949. The University has three colleges and 17 schools offering courses in subjects that include medicine, computer engineering, and humanities.

The University is located on the coast of the Sea of Japan in Kanazawa – a city rich in history and culture. The city of Kanazawa has a highly respected intellectual profile since the time of the fiefdom (1598-1867). Kanazawa University is divided into two main campuses: Kakuma and Takaramachi for its approximately 10,200 students including 600 from overseas.

http://www.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/e/

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/kanazawa-university-research-chromatin-accessibility-a-new-avenue-for-gene-editing-302063811.html

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Nanalysis Announces Board Transition and Appointment of Three New Directors

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CALGARY, AB, May 1, 2026 /CNW/ – Nanalysis Scientific Corp. (the “Company”, TSXV: NSCI, FRA: 1N1), a leader in portable NMR spectrometers and MRI technology for industrial and research applications, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jonathan Ladd, Werner Maas, and Steve Feick to its Board of Directors effective May 1, 2026.

Mr. Ladd is an experienced technology executive and former Chief Executive Officer of NovAtel Inc., a Nasdaq-listed GPS technology company acquired by Hexagon AB. He has a track record of scaling global technology businesses and brings extensive experience in capital markets, corporate governance, and strategic execution within advanced technology companies. He currently serves on the following boards: Takemetoit Inc., AgriRobot, Litus Inc., and is an advisor at Tall Grass Ventures. Mr. Ladd earned a bachelor’s degree with distinction in engineering and is a member of Tau Beta Pi National Engineering Honor Society.

Dr. Maas is a senior executive in the analytical instrumentation sector, having previously served as President of Bruker BioSpin Corporation and currently serving as Chief Executive Officer of Hudson Lab Automation. He brings deep expertise in nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technologies, as well as global sales, marketing, and commercialization of scientific instrumentation. Dr. Maas holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from Radboud University in The Netherlands, as well as several executive management designations from the MIT Sloan School of Management.

Mr. Feick is President of Manvest Inc., part of the Mancal Group. He has a track record of developing and growing a portfolio of investments in agriculture, finance, supply chain, infrastructure technology, energy efficiency, and data analytics. As a former entrepreneur, he ensures that his operational and investor experience elevates the growth of the portfolio. He is an experienced investor and brings expertise in capital allocation, governance, and long-term strategic planning across private and public market investments. Mr. Feick holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Queen’s University.

In connection with these appointments, Martin Burian and Jennifer Stubbs will be stepping down from the Board of Directors, effective May 1, 2026. The Company thanks Mr. Burian and Ms. Stubbs for their contributions and service and wishes them continued success in their future endeavours.

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Martin and Jennifer for their contributions to Nanalysis and dedicated service to the Company and wish them continued success in their future endeavours.” said Sean Krakiwsky, Chief Executive Officer. “We are pleased to welcome Jonathan, Werner, and Steve. Their collective experience across instrumentation, global commercialization, and capital allocation will support the Company as we focus on scaling our core NMR platform and executing on our services growth strategy.”

About Nanalysis Scientific Corp. (TSXV: NSCI, OTCQX: NSCIF, FRA: 1N1)

Nanalysis Scientific Corp. develops and manufactures portable Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectrometers used worldwide in pharma, biotech, energy, food, materials, and security industries, as well as in academic and government labs. The Company also operates a growing services division that maintains both its own products and third-party imaging equipment, anchored by a $160 million long-term contract with the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) to maintain security scanners at more than 80 Canadian airports.

Notice regarding Forward Looking Statements and Legal Disclaimer

This news release contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of such statements under applicable securities law. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as “anticipates”, “plan”, “continue”, “expect”, “project”, “intend”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “may”, “will”, “potential”, “proposed”, “positioned” and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions “may” or “will” occur. These statements are only predictions. Various assumptions were used in drawing the conclusions or making the projections contained in the forward-looking statements throughout this news release. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The Company is under no obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

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SOURCE Nanalysis Scientific Corp.

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PCIS Emerges as Leading Risk and Claims Provider in Mid-Atlantic with Three Major Wins

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SEPTA, City of Baltimore, and Maryland Department of Transportation MTA adopt ClaimsVISION to modernize risk and claims operations

NEW YORK, May 1, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — PCIS, a leading provider of Risk & Claims Management Information System (RMIS), today announced a series of new and expanded client engagements across the Mid-Atlantic region, further solidifying its position as a trusted partner for transit agencies and public sector organizations.

“The biggest barrier to innovation in the public sector isn’t a lack of tools—it’s the weight of legacy data environments that were never built for real-time intelligence. You can’t layer AI on top of fragmented, batch-driven systems and expect results.

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) has selected PCIS ClaimsVISION RMIS to enhance its risk management capabilities and support more efficient claims oversight. The City of Baltimore has chosen ClaimsVISION Claims and RMIS to modernize its claims administration and enterprise risk management operations. In addition, the Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration (MDOT MTA) has entered into a new five-year agreement with PCIS, extending a long-standing partnership and continuing its use of the ClaimsVISION platform.

These engagements reflect a broader trend among public entities seeking modern, configurable platforms to improve visibility, streamline workflows, and strengthen compliance across increasingly complex risk environments.

“The biggest barrier to innovation in the public sector isn’t a lack of tools—it’s the weight of legacy data environments that were never built for real-time intelligence. You can’t layer AI on top of fragmented, batch-driven systems and expect results. Organizations like SEPTA and Baltimore are rethinking the foundation—moving toward continuous, streaming data models that actually enable AI to deliver value”, said Michael Loizou, CSO of PCIS.

Across these implementations, PCIS will deliver a unified platform designed to:

Centralize claims and risk data for improved decision-makingEnhance BI and intelligent analytics capabilitiesStreamline workflows and reduce manual processesSupport regulatory compliance and audit readinessEnable scalable, configurable solutions tailored to public sector needs

The continued expansion of PCIS within the Mid-Atlantic region underscores the company’s growing presence among transit agencies and public entities seeking proven, purpose-built risk and claims management solutions.

Media Contact

Helene Quinn, PCIS, 1 2124051625, hquinn@pcisvision.com, www.pcisvision.com

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SOURCE PCIS

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Private Equity’s AI Moment: The Greatest Value Lever in Decades — and the Hardest to Pull

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The following article is authored by Neil Dhar, Senior Vice President, IBM Consulting Americas

ARMONK, N.Y., May 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Next week at Think 2026, we’ll outline the forces shaping the Enterprise AI Race, forces that apply with particular urgency to private equity. The organizations gaining ground today are not the ones betting on a single model. They are the ones redesigning how their businesses operate, building hybrid architectures that give them control, and deploying AI in ways that orchestrate value that compounds over time. 

The private equity industry understands this better than most. The days of pilots and promises are over, and the demand for hard proof (a.k.a. ROI) has begun. Is your revenue accelerating? Can you drive efficiency and profitability at the same time? What does long-term growth look like? These are the questions sitting across the table at every board meeting and investment committee, and the pressure is only intensifying.  

This pressure has forced major PE firms to move aggressively to formalize their AI strategies, including exploring joint ventures with leading LLM companies. They’re making a calculated bet on AI as the most powerful value‑creation lever the industry has seen in its history, and they recognize that the window to move is now. 

The logic is unmistakable. PE firms don’t run single businesses, they run portfolios. Which means AI playbooks that work don’t just transform one company; they compound across ten, twenty, fifty, hundreds. A workflow reinvented once becomes a repeatable asset. A governance framework built once becomes portfolio infrastructure. That multiplier effect is native to how PE creates value, and it’s what makes the intersection of private equity and enterprise AI one of the most consequential arenas in business right now. 

The bet is a no-brainer. Execution is where it gets hard.  

Here’s what we know to be true: competitive advantage won’t come from betting on a single LLM. It will come from building AI tailored to your business, shifting to a hybrid strategy that combines custom models, foundation models, and smaller specialized models, all grounded in an architecture that connects your data, your workflows, and your intelligence. In private equity, where the same playbook has to work across an entire portfolio, that distinction isn’t academic. It’s the difference between value that compounds and value that stalls. 

We know this because we lived it. We turned our own operations into the proving ground, analyzing nearly 400 operational workflows and deploying AI solutions across more than 100 so far, coupled with AI governance and enablement.

The result was $4.5B in productivity gains from AI, hybrid cloud, automation and consulting expertise, and proof of what works.

We then took that proof and productized those validated workflows into IBM Enterprise Advantage, a first-of-its-kind asset-based consulting service that enables clients to build and operate their own tailored internal AI platform at scale.

With digital workers, prebuilt tools, and native governance, clients have a headstart rather than a blank slate. And because it’s multi-model, they retain the freedom to shift as technology evolves. For private equity, that flexibility determines whether a company is an asset or a liability at exit. 

We’re bringing this same approach to private equity-backed companies, where the defining question is what changed and can you prove it.

A major U.S. telecommunications provider is deploying digital workers and prebuilt AI tools from Enterprise Advantage to accelerate the migration of more than 150 critical applications, delivering measurable savings within two quarters.Working with a leading insurance administrator, IBM is using agentic AI to overhaul end-to-end claims processing, a function where a single claim can involve dozens of tightly regulated steps across multiple systems. AI agents now read and structure claim documents, perform compliance checks, assess eligibility, and route cases automatically, resulting in faster cycle times, fewer bottlenecks, and an operating model built to scale. 

What private equity does here will ripple far beyond its own portfolios. When PE-backed companies deploy production-ready AI across the business, they reset competitive expectations for entire industries, forcing every competitor to respond. That is the Enterprise AI Race playing out in real time.

The choices made today will define portfolio performance for the next decade. Move too slowly and you’re handing the advantage to every competitor who didn’t. Move without discipline and you’re betting the portfolio on a foundation that hasn’t been proven. The firms that win will be the ones who understood that distinction early enough to do something about it.

About IBM 

IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud and AI, and consulting expertise. We help clients in more than 175 countries capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs and gain the competitive edge in their industries. Thousands of governments and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on IBM’s hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to affect their digital transformations quickly, efficiently and securely. IBM’s breakthrough innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and consulting deliver open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM’s long-standing commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity and service. Visit www.ibm.com for more information.

Media contact: 

IBM
Lily O’Brien
lilyobrien@ibm.com

SOURCE IBM

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