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RYBODYN AWARDED $1.3M DOW GRANT TO ADVANCE NOVEL ANTIBODY THERAPIES FOR LUNG CANCER

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Competitive CDMRP award funds preclinical programs against two cryptic cell-surface targets discovered directly in patient tumors using the company’s AI-powered RyboCypher™ platform and CypherAtlas™ knowledgebase

SAN DIEGO, July 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — RyboDyn, Inc., a biotechnology company decoding the dark proteome with an AI-powered sequencing and discovery platform, today announced a $1.3 million award from the U.S. Department of War (DOW) to advance preclinical development of two novel antibody-based therapies for lung cancer. The award will support the company’s antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) and T-cell engager (TCE) programs targeting two previously undiscovered cell-surface proteins identified directly from patient tumors through CypherAtlas™, RyboDyn’s integrated dark transcriptome and proteome atlas.

The award was made through the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) Peer Reviewed Cancer Research Program (PRCRP) Impact Award, a highly competitive program that supports innovative approaches with the potential to significantly improve outcomes for cancer patients. The funding follows RyboDyn’s recent Seed financing and continued expansion of CypherAtlas™, now one of the largest integrated resources for cryptic cancer biology.

A target problem, not a molecule problem

Despite remarkable advances in AI, protein engineering, and antibody discovery, nearly 90% of oncology drugs entering clinical trials still fail to reach approval. In many cases, the limiting factor is not the quality of the therapeutic molecule, but the biology it is designed to target. The industry continues to pursue the same relatively small set of well-characterized targets. Those proteins are often present in only a subset of patients or are also expressed in healthy tissues, limiting efficacy, increasing toxicity, and leaving many patients without effective treatment options.

RyboDyn approaches drug discovery in reverse. Rather than beginning with known biology, the company starts with patients, mining thousands of tumors to identify previously hidden proteins that recur across large patient populations while remaining absent from healthy tissue. By discovering therapeutic targets directly from patient biology before drug design begins, RyboDyn aims to fundamentally improve the probability of developing first-in-class medicines.

Powered by an unprecedented atlas of hidden biology

At the core of RyboDyn’s discovery engine is RyboCypher™, which combines deep sequencing of non-canonical RNAs, proteomic validation, and foundational AI models to identify disease-specific therapeutic targets that conventional approaches cannot detect. Each discovery is integrated into CypherAtlas™, the company’s continuously expanding atlas of the dark transcriptome and dark proteome, now built from more than 2,000 patient samples spanning 12 oncology indications.

Today, CypherAtlas contains more than 6 million conserved, previously uncharacterized dark RNAs, over 80,000 cryptic peptides empirically identified by mass spectrometry, and approximately 10,000 cancer-specific peptides with therapeutic potential. Together, these data represent one of the richest collections of clinically relevant therapeutic targets assembled from the dark proteome and provide the foundation for RyboDyn’s growing pipeline of first-in-class therapeutic programs.

From atlas to assets

The prioritized targets emerged as two of the most prevalent cell-surface targets identified in lung cancer, making them particularly well suited for antibody-drug conjugate and T-cell engager development. Under the DOW award, RyboDyn will generate therapeutic candidates against both targets, characterize their biological activity, and advance the programs through in vivo proof-of-concept studies.

Why lung cancer remains a DOW priority

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in the United States and disproportionately affects military service members and veterans. Exposure to burn pits, asbestos, diesel exhaust, Agent Orange, and other occupational hazards, together with historically higher smoking prevalence, has contributed to substantially elevated lung cancer risk within veteran populations. Approximately 8,000 veterans are diagnosed with lung cancer each year. By expanding the pool of novel therapeutic targets, RyboDyn’s approach aligns closely with the DOW’s mission to improve treatment options for service members, veterans, and the broader cancer community.

“This grant validates our belief that one of the greatest remaining opportunities in oncology is not simply building better drugs, but revealing biology that has always existed, yet remained inaccessible because of the limitations of conventional sequencing technologies. When we analyzed our first patient tumors with RyboCypher™, our highest-priority targets emerged almost immediately. As we expanded our analysis across larger patient cohorts, we confirmed that these targets recur broadly and consistently across patients. That is exactly the biology CypherAtlas™ was built to uncover, and the foundation for developing first-in-class medicines for the patients who need them most.”

About RyboDyn, Inc.

RyboDyn is redefining how diseases are targeted by decoding the dark proteome: cryptic proteins missed by conventional and next-generation sequencing. Powered by RyboCypher™, its proprietary RNA sequencing and AI-enabled discovery platform, the company identifies novel therapeutic targets directly from patient samples. By discovering highly prevalent, disease-specific targets before drug development begins, RyboDyn matches therapeutic opportunities to patient populations from the outset, enabling a differentiated path to first-in-class therapies for cancer and other diseases with significant unmet medical need. Built on intellectual property licensed from Oregon Health & Science University Knight Cancer Institute, RyboDyn is based at Lilly Gateway Labs in San Diego and is a member of Lilly’s AI TuneLabs consortium and NVIDIA’s Inception Program. The company also maintains a publicly disclosed collaboration with Moffitt Cancer Center. RyboDyn is backed by Genedant, SeaX Ventures, SOSV, Swell VC, Massive Tech Ventures, and P2V.

Media Contact

Andy Bass
VP, Corporate Strategy
info@rybodyn.com

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In HelloNation, Jewelry Expert Mike Littlejohn Explains What to Expect From Jewelry Repair and Ring Resizing

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The article outlines how repair services and resizing work and what factors affect timing, cost, and results.

AUBURN, Ind., Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Can damaged or ill-fitting jewelry be restored instead of replaced? That question is answered in a HelloNation article, featuring insights from Jewelry Expert Mike Littlejohn of Carbaugh Jewelers.

The HelloNation article explains that jewelry repair and ring resizing are practical ways to restore both the function and appearance of worn pieces. It notes that everyday issues such as broken chains, worn prongs, and loose clasps are common and can often be fixed successfully when addressed early.

According to the article, jewelry repair services cover a wide range of problems caused by regular wear. Fixing these issues promptly can help prevent more serious damage and extend the life of the piece. The article emphasizes that early attention often leads to better outcomes.

Ring resizing is another key service discussed. The ring resizing process involves adjusting the band so that the ring fits securely and comfortably again. Changes in finger size over time or due to temperature can make resizing necessary. The article explains that the goal is to maintain the original look while improving wearability.

Not all rings can be resized in the same way. The article describes how simple bands are easier to adjust, while more detailed designs may require careful handling. Rings with stones set along the band can limit how much resizing is possible. The article notes that understanding these factors helps set clear expectations before starting any work.

Metal type also plays an important role in both jewelry repair and resizing. The article explains that gold is commonly used and responds well to standard techniques. Platinum is denser and more durable, which can make it harder to adjust but also longer lasting. These differences can affect the time and complexity of the repair.

Stone settings require special attention during any jewelry repair services. The article notes that loose stones can often be secured, and missing stones may be replaced if a close match is available. Careful handling helps maintain both the safety and appearance of the piece.

Timing varies depending on the type of repair. The article explains that simple fixes may be completed quickly, while more detailed work takes additional time. The ring resizing process may also take longer if a significant size change is needed. Understanding the timeline helps manage expectations.

Cost is another factor addressed in the article. Jewelry repair cost depends on the level of work required, the condition of the item, and the materials involved. Basic repairs are usually more affordable, while complex work can increase the overall cost. Clear estimates help avoid surprises.

Preventive care is also important. The article encourages regular checks for loose parts or signs of wear so that issues can be handled early. This reduces the need for more extensive repairs and helps maintain the condition of the jewelry over time.

In some cases, repair may not be the best option. The article explains that severe damage or delicate designs can limit what can be safely restored. Alternative solutions, such as redesigning the piece, may be considered when repair is not practical. The article highlights the importance of understanding these limits.

In the end, the article emphasizes that jewelry repair and ring resizing remain valuable options for maintaining meaningful items. By understanding jewelry repair services, the ring resizing process, jewelry repair cost, and how metal type affects the work, individuals can make informed decisions and extend the life of their jewelry.

Can Jewelry Be Repaired or Resized, and What Should You Expect? Features insights from Mike Littlejohn, Jewelry Expert of Auburn, Indiana, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is America’s Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused digital publications and innovative “edvertising” approach, HelloNation delivers expert-driven, good-news content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

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INSEAD establishes Thrive Lab with US$3 million funding from Google.org and Google DeepMind

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Launched at INSEAD AI Forum Asia, the new Lab is set to advance global academic research on the impact of AI on human connectivity, meaning and wellbeing in work and life

FONTAINEBLEAU, France and SINGAPORE and SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — INSEAD, The Business School for the World, today announced it has received US$3 million in funding from Google.org and Google DeepMind. The funding will support the Research Lab for Human and Organisational Thriving (INSEAD Thrive Lab), aimed at accelerating global research on how people and organisations can flourish in an era of continuous technological transformation.

Artificial intelligence is emerging as the most consequential technology that profoundly shapes how people learn, work, live and interact with one another. While it presents near limitless possibilities, we need to give careful attention to the potential risks. How can we strengthen our human, social and psychological capital amid relentless technological change? And how must our ecosystems of learning – spanning educational, community, and professional spheres – evolve to build this capital? These are the central questions that the INSEAD Thrive Lab will focus on.

“We want to understand how people can expand their capabilities, build economically viable and psychologically meaningful working lives, and cultivate strong relationships with others in the age of artificial intelligence. Through rigorous, multidisciplinary research, INSEAD Thrive Lab aims to have real-world impact and generate actionable insights into what enables people and organisations not just to adapt to a rapidly changing world, but to thrive in it,” said Winnie Jiang, Academic Director of INSEAD Thrive Lab and Associate Professor of Organisational Behaviour at INSEAD.

Housed under INSEAD’s Human and Machine Intelligence Institute (HUMII) – a cross-disciplinary research institute that counts the 2025 Nobel Laureate in Economics Philippe Aghion and 2025 Oskar Morgenstern Medallist Phanish Puranam as part of its core academic team – INSEAD Thrive Lab will focus on three interconnected domains: Learning, Working and Relating.

“The success of artificial intelligence won’t be measured solely by efficiency or productivity gains, but by whether it empowers people to live more fulfilling lives. Navigating this rapid transformation requires thoughtful research and an unwavering commitment to human well-being. We are proud to support the launch of INSEAD Thrive Lab, which will explore some of the most pressing questions shaping the future of work and help people adapt, stay resilient, and thrive alongside AI,” said Sepi Hejazi Moghadam, Head of Foundations of Science, Google.org.

“We are incredibly grateful for the generous fund from Google.org and Google DeepMind. At HUMII, our goal is to conduct research on all branches of artificial intelligence for the ultimate purpose of expanding human capacities and human agency. The Lab’s work will be core to HUMII and to our society,” says Lily Fang, Academic Director of HUMII and Dean of Research and Innovation at INSEAD.

Click here to view video about the INSEAD Thrive Lab

INSEAD Thrive Lab will build on the school’s mission to develop responsible leaders who transform organisations and society, serving as a global hub for research, dialogue and innovation around the human dimension of progress. To this end, it will train emerging scholars working on the theme of human meaning and human flourishing through its PhD research award and postdoctoral fellowship and bring the wider research community together at its annual global conference. Research-to-practice partnerships with organisations, schools and governments, as well as a series of workshops, talks and dialogues are designed to translate insights into practice, and ultimately, help people flourish.

The announcement was made during the INSEAD AI Forum Asia, held at the INSEAD Asia Campus in Singapore. The event serves as a platform for dialogue between researchers, business leaders, policymakers and the public with the goal of advancing the beneficial and responsible use of artificial intelligence to benefit business and society. Part of the global INSEAD AI Forum series, the Asia edition comes after Europe and America, with the next edition taking place in UAE from 27 to 28 January 2027.

To learn more about INSEAD Thrive Lab, participate in the programme, or support the

school’s ongoing mission, visit INSEAD Thrive Lab or follow #INSEADAI.

Media contact: news@insead.edu

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About INSEAD, The Business School for the World 

As one of the world’s leading and largest graduate business schools, INSEAD brings together people, cultures and ideas to develop responsible leaders who transform business and society. Our research, teaching and partnerships reflect this global perspective and cultural diversity. Our global perspective and unparalleled cultural diversity are reflected in our research, teaching, partnerships; as well as in our alumni network of over 73,000 members representing 176 nationalities across 183 countries.

With locations in Europe (France), Asia (Singapore), the Middle East (Abu Dhabi), and North America (San Francisco), INSEAD’s business education and research spans four regions. Our 162 renowned Faculty members from 40 countries inspire more than 1,700 degree participants annually in our Master in Management, MBA, Global Executive MBA, Specialised Master’s degrees (Executive Master in Finance and Executive Master in Change) and PhD programmes. In addition, more than 21,000 executives participate in INSEAD Executive Education programmes each year.

INSEAD continues to conduct cutting-edge research and innovate across all our programmes. We provide business leaders with the knowledge and awareness to operate anywhere. Our core values drive academic excellence and serve the global community as The Business School for the World.

For more information, visit www.insead.edu. 

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nbkc bank Announces Agreement to Assume Consumer BaaS Programs of LSBX, a Division of Lincoln Savings Bank

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Transaction to Boost nbkc’s Banking as a Service Business and Deposit Base

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — nbkc bank today announced that it filed an application with the FDIC to assume the consumer-focused Banking as a Service (BaaS) portfolio maintained by LSBX, Lincoln Savings Bank’s BaaS division, which would increase the scale of its BaaS business and overall deposit base.

The transaction is anticipated to close in early 2027 subject to regulatory approval. Terms were not disclosed. It follows a September announcement that Lincoln Savings Bank parent Lincoln Bancorp, Reinbeck, Iowa, will merge with and into Equity Bancshares, Inc., headquartered in Wichita, Kan.

“This transaction is a natural fit for nbkc and is a great opportunity to continue growing our BaaS business,” said Michael Bartkoski, president and CEO of nbkc bank. “It allows us to further strengthen our deposit base and build upon an established program with significant momentum.” Bartkoski said he expects the LSBX offering to be merged into nbkc’s BaaS business and to go to market under the nbkc brand.

“We believe nbkc is an excellent successor and home for our LSBX customers,” said Sean Willett, CEO of Lincoln Savings Bank. “nbkc has built an exceptional Banking as a Service capability, and they are well known for effectively combining technology and a human touch. We believe in that approach and are confident it will serve our customers very well.”

Through BaaS offerings, banks provide nonbank fintech companies, which do not have banking charters, the opportunity to provide banking products such as deposits, checking, debit cards and personal loans to their customers. Fintech companies’ clients interact with the fintech company’s app on the front end, and their accounts are opened with the partner bank, typically on a private label basis. Fintech companies gain the ability to offer banking products, and banks offering BaaS gain access to those companies’ retail customers.

nbkc bank has developed meaningful scale in its BaaS business, with approximately 13 BaaS relationships with fintech companies, approximately 3.6 million BaaS customers and 30 dedicated BaaS employees.

“Our investment in our BaaS offering enables us to take on a transaction of this scale with confidence in our ability to provide a seamless, excellent customer experience,” Bartkoski said.

About nbkc bank

Having celebrated 25 years in 2024, nbkc bank is a Kansas City-based community bank with a nationwide online presence. Known for pairing intuitive technology with personal support, nbkc delivers digital solutions for mortgage, consumer, and business banking, plus Banking as a Service (BaaS) for companies nationwide. The bank also founded Fountain City Fintech®, an accelerator for growing fintech startups. nbkc remains committed to leading the industry toward simpler, more transparent banking. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

Media Contact
Melissa.Beltrame@nbkc.com

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