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ERS Genomics and KU Leuven Sign CRISPR/Cas9 License Agreement to Expand CRISPR-Enabled Research Services

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Agreement gives KU Leuven’s Leuven Viral Vector Core access to foundational CRISPR/Cas9 intellectual property, supporting genome editing services for academic and industry researchers worldwide

DUBLIN, and LEUVEN, Belgium, Oct. 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ERS Genomics Limited (‘ERS Genomics’), the CRISPR licensing company, today announced that it has signed a non-exclusive license agreement with KU Leuven covering CRISPR/Cas9 activities at the Leuven Viral Vector Core (LVVC), a core facility of KU Leuven.

The agreement grants KU Leuven worldwide access to ERS Genomics’ foundational CRISPR/Cas9 patent portfolio for research tools and reagents, CRISPR-modified cells and animal models for laboratory research, and services that support drug target identification and validation, compound screening and preclinical research. Through this license, the LVVC can combine CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing with its viral vector expertise to offer engineered cell models and related services to researchers in academia and industry.

The LVVC provides customized viral vector technologies and services to support biomedical research and preclinical development. Through this agreement, the LVVC will expand its service portfolio with CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome engineering, including the generation of customized cellular disease models and engineered induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines using viral vector-based delivery platforms. These capabilities will support a broad range of research applications, including disease modeling, functional genomics, target validation, and preclinical development.

Rik Gijsbers, Professor Advances Disease Modelling, Target Drug Discovery and Gene Therapy, KU Leuven, said: “At the LVVC, we are committed to providing researchers with state-of-the-art technologies that accelerate scientific discovery and translational research. This license enables us to integrate CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing with our extensive expertise in viral vector development and delivery, providing academic and industrial partners with access to robust, high-quality genome engineering tools and services.”

CRISPR/Cas9 is a transformative genome editing technology that enables precise and efficient modification of DNA. As genome editing becomes increasingly embedded in research workflows, from disease modelling to target validation, licensed access to foundational intellectual property is an essential step toward securing freedom to operate.

John E. Milad, Chief Executive Officer, ERS Genomics, said: “CRISPR is the most widely used genome editing technology in biomedical research and drug discovery, and its applications keep growing. KU Leuven’s Leuven Viral Vector Core is putting that technology directly in researchers’ hands, pairing CRISPR/Cas9 with its deep viral vector expertise. We’re pleased to support LVVC with licensed access to the foundational CRISPR/Cas9 IP as it expands its services to academic and industry partners.”

ERS Genomics provides access to the pioneering CRISPR/Cas9 intellectual property developed by Dr. Emmanuelle Charpentier and her collaborators. Through its streamlined licensing program, ERS Genomics enables companies and institutions worldwide to access foundational patents covering the use of CRISPR/Cas9 technology across research and commercial applications.

About ERS Genomics

ERS Genomics provides access to the foundational CRISPR/Cas9 intellectual property estate (the ‘CVC Patents’) co-owned by Nobel Laureate Professor Emmanuelle Charpentier, who, together with Dr Jennifer Doudna, was awarded the 2020 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for developing CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology. The CVC portfolio represents the most comprehensive and widely granted collection of foundational CRISPR/Cas9 patents globally, more than 130 issued patents, including over 50 in the US, encompassing over 1,400 claims across all cell types.

Derived from a bacterial immune defence system, CRISPR/Cas9 is a precise, efficient tool for editing DNA in living organisms that has transformed research across genetics, biotechnology, and molecular biology.

ERS Genomics offers non-exclusive licenses to the CVC Patents for research and commercial applications outside the direct use of CRISPR as a human therapeutic. These licenses provide essential freedom to operate for organizations working with CRISPR/Cas9 across a wide range of fields, including: life sciences research tools, reagents, and services, discovery of novel therapeutic targets, development of engineered cell lines and animal models for drug screening, bioproduction of antibodies and therapeutic proteins, animal and agricultural biotechnology, synthetic biology, including production of enzymes, food ingredients, and bio-based chemicals.

Current ERS licensees include GSK, Merck, Bayer, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Corteva, Danaher, PerkinElmer, Charles River Laboratories, and Cargill. For more information, visit www.ersgenomics.com.

About KU Leuven

KU Leuven is Belgium’s largest university and one of Europe’s leading research-intensive universities. Founded in 1425, KU Leuven combines high-quality education with pioneering research across a broad range of disciplines, including life sciences, engineering, health, and technology. Through close collaboration with academic, clinical, and industrial partners worldwide, KU Leuven is committed to advancing scientific knowledge and translating research excellence into societal and economic impact.

The LVVC is a state-of-the-art academic core facility at KU Leuven providing viral vector and genome engineering services to researchers worldwide. Operating in a fully equipped BSL2+ environment, LVVC specializes in the production of retroviral, lentiviral and recombinant AAV vectors, as well as virus-like particles (VLPs), supporting applications ranging from basic research and disease modelling to translational and preclinical studies. For more information, visit www.lvvc.be.

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The Ultimate Send-off to Summer: CSTS Debuts Global Entertainment IP PremierX at New York’s Pier 17, Ushering in a New Era of Live Entertainment

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October 24, 2026

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NEW YORK, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CSTS Enterprises (‘CSTS’), a New York-based sports, entertainment, integrated media and travel technology group, today announced the official launch of PremierXTM, its flagship live entertainment brand, with a landmark Halloween Weekend event “AFTER DARK” at The Rooftop at Pier 17 in New York on October 30, 2026.

Capping off Seaport’s 2026 Summer Season in unforgettable fashion, the grand finale brings a powerhouse lineup of stars to the PremierXTM stage at Pier 17, featuring Lil Xan, Armani White, DJ Soda, Nate Wyatt, and surprise A-list guest headliners. Set against the iconic Manhattan skyline, the landmark eventing unites chart-topping hip-hop and high-octane electronic music for a festival-grade experience as The Rooftop at Pier 17 transforms into the city’s premier live music destination.

Building on the momentum of the PremierXTM After Party for the 2026 World Cup Final that took place in New York on July 19th, “AFTER DARK” signals the official debut of PremierXTM, a proprietary, New York – born global entertainment IP created by CSTS to deliver defining cultural experiences at the intersection of music, sport, art and lifestyle. Centred on the power of cultural crossover, PremierXTM serves as an international bridge connecting East and West, modern innovation and timeless classical, while uniting world-class artists, creators, performers and audiences through the universal language of entertainment and premium live experiences.

The launch also marks the beginning of a promising relationship with Pier 17, providing a world-class stage for PremierXTM to accelerate its growth in the U.S. and engage international audiences over the long term. By combining PremierXTM’s global entertainment vision with Pier 17’s iconic waterfront setting, the partnership aims to create a premier destination for live experiences, empowering both platforms to expand their global reach, deepen audience engagement, and drive sustainable growth.

As a key pillar of CSTS’ integrated ecosystem spanning entertainment, sports, travel, integrated media and marketing solutions, PremierXTM further strengthens the Group’s ability to create high-impact experiences that connect audiences, destinations and brand partners. With the global live entertainment market projected to grow from approximately US$203 billion in 2025 to US$270 billion by 2030[1], PremierXTM is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for premium, experience-led entertainment while creating long-term value to the Group through recurring audience engagement, tourism and brand partnerships.

“PremierX TM represents a significant milestone in CSTS’ evolution from a leading operator of global sports and hospitality platforms into a creator of world-class entertainment experiences,” said Abel Zhao, Group CEO and Executive Director at CSTS Enterprises. “The season finale at Pier17 marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for CSTS as we expand our entertainment footprint and introduce a platform designed to deliver iconic live experiences and bring together artists and audiences from across the globe.”

“PremierXTM was built from the ground up as a bespoke platform to champion multicultural talent and visionary creative performers.” said Jason Liu, Regional Director of CSTS USA. “Starting from New York, we are building a scalable global brand that brings iconic live experiences to audiences worldwide while expanding our presence across key entertainment hubs in North America, Asia and Europe.”

Following its New York launch, PremierXTM plans to expand through a broader international rollout across North America, Asia and Europe, with future editions planned as part of a growing network of recurring live entertainment properties and flagship cultural events.

For ticket information on PremierXTM: “AFTER DARK”, visit
https://www.axs.com/events/1644912/after-dark-tickets

About CSTS Enterprises

CSTS Enterprises is an integrated media, entertainment, sports, and travel technology group. Headquartered in New York City, the company develops and partners with intellectual properties and brands to deliver compelling experiences that connect with audiences across the world. In addition to its own initiatives, including Generation CTM and PremierXTM, it collaborates with international IPs including FIFA World Cup, UEFA European Championship, and Formula 1.

CSTS integrates experiential marketing, travel, data, and technology to deliver seamless end-to-end audience experiences. The company engages consumers across physical events and digital channels, executing at scale worldwide, turning complex activations into co-ordinated, measurable outcomes.

[1] Source: Industry research by Markets and Markets, Live Entertainment Market Size, Share, Latest Trends & Growth Analysis, 2025-2030, Live Entertainment Market Size, Share, Latest Trends & Growth Analysis, 2025-2030.

 

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SOURCE CSTS Enterprises

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Swanson Vitamins Launches Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro to Champion Registered Dietitians and Licensed Nutritionists at Every Stage of Their Careers

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October 24, 2026

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New network for health and nutrition professionals offers CPEU-accredited continuing education, profession-wide promotion, practicum support and exam scholarships

FARGO, N.D., Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Swanson Vitamins today launched Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro, a network for health and nutrition professionals. The new initiative champions registered dietitians and licensed nutritionists through every stage of their careers, from students to providers with decades of experience. Created by nutrition professionals for nutrition professionals, Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro offers educational resources, incentives and investments to support practitioners who share Swanson’s commitment to uncompromising integrity.

Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro offers tailored resources for both practicing professionals and students. For practicing registered dietitians and licensed nutritionists, the program provides CPEU-accredited continuing education, along with profession-wide promotion of the experts who guide consumers’ wellness decisions. For dietetics and nutrition students, Swanson is investing in the next generation of the profession through practicum support and scholarships toward licensing or credentialing exam fees.

As consumers take a more active role in their health, they are increasingly turning to registered dietitians and licensed nutritionists for accurate, science-backed guidance. Through Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro, Swanson aims to help nutrition professionals strengthen their credentials and build expertise in areas where consumers are seeking trusted nutritional support.

“Since 1969, we have been committed to uncompromising integrity in service of everyone’s journey to real wellness, and we believe real wellness starts with the experts who guide it,” said Erin Del Ponte, EVP Brand Marketing at Swanson Vitamins. “Registered dietitians and licensed nutritionists translate nutrition science into practical, personalized guidance that helps people make informed decisions about their health. With Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro, we are proud to support these professionals at every stage of their careers, from students preparing for their credentialing exams to seasoned providers building expertise in the areas that matter most to consumers today.”

Swanson Nexus Pro program highlights

CPEU-accredited continuing education for registered dietitians and licensed nutritionistsProfession-wide promotion of registered dietitians and licensed nutritionistsPracticum support for dietetics and nutrition studentsScholarships to help offset licensing or credentialing exam fees

Applications for Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro are open and can be submitted HERE. Additional details, including scholarship award amounts and practicum support details, will be announced in the coming weeks.

Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro was introduced at the Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ annual conference, held Oct. 24-27 in San Antonio. This initiative builds on Swanson’s longstanding commitment to the nutrition and dietetics community and reflects the company’s continued investment in the professionals who help consumers make informed choices on their journey to real wellness.

Media Assets
Photos HERE

About Swanson Vitamins
Since 1969, Swanson Vitamins has offered high-quality, science-backed vitamins and supplements rooted in one simple belief: proof over promise. Nearly six decades before “wellness” became an industry, Swanson was pioneering trustworthy supplement offerings and upholding uncompromising quality standards through intentional sourcing, rigorous in-house and third-party testing and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Today, Swanson is a Certified GMP Facility recognized by NSF, backed by an in-house team of nutritionists, dietitians, scientists, chemists and pharmacists with a combined 250-plus years of experience. With more than 1,300 products across 36 categories, Swanson doesn’t chase trends. It sets standards for integrity, quality and clarity in the supplement industry.

Swanson products are available at SwansonVitamins.com, Amazon and iHerb.com. Learn more at SwansonVitamins.com or follow @swansonvitamins on Instagram.

MEDIA CONTACT
Lauren Torrez, Crowe PR
ltorrez@crowepr.com 

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Technology Drives the Future of Travel: JETOUR Continues to Expand Its “Travel+” Ecosystem

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October 24, 2026

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WUHU, China, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Expectations for travel are evolving: vehicles are no longer simply a means of reaching a destination, but travel companions that bring people closer to nature, serving as a “mobile third space.”

JETOUR continues to advance its “Travel+” strategy, integrating technological innovation, product development, and ecosystem building into real travel scenarios. From October 20 to 23, the 2026 JETOUR Global Technology Experience Day, themed “Future Travel Starts Now,” takes place across Wuhu, Anhui and Moganshan, Zhejiang, featuring technology experiences, on-road driving, outdoor living, and conservation activities.

Technological Innovation: Expanding the Possibilities of Travel

Backed by the Group’s expertise in AI, intelligent driving, smart cabins, and AiMOGA Robotics, JETOUR turns cutting-edge technology into experiences users can genuinely feel. The XWD Fully Automatic Intelligent 4WD, with 7+X one-touch modes, tackles mountain roads, gravel, and water crossings, while the GAIA All-Terrain Intelligent Architecture adapts to diverse terrain and C-DM hybrid technology balances performance with efficiency. On October 21, models with these technologies take on mountain-road test drives at Moganshan.

A Diverse Product Lineup: Enriching the Travel Experience

The G700 combines premium comfort with hardcore off-road capability, while the T1 and T2 suit both urban driving and light off-road adventures. Roof tents, onboard refrigerators, and other ecosystem equipment turn the vehicle into an all-round companion. JETOUR also hosts a camping market and a Starry Night Forum, bringing product features into real travel settings.

Ecosystem: Extending the Value of Travel

Travel is about understanding cultures and protecting nature as well as exploration. Participants visit Xiazhu Lake in Zhejiang for a crested ibis conservation initiative. Globally, JETOUR supports cheetah conservation in Africa, turtle conservation in Malaysia, harpy eagle conservation in Panama, and protection of Pakistan’s national animal, the markhor.

JETOUR has also partnered with Chile’s Colo-Colo, FIBA, and the Malaysia Marathon, broadening engagement with local culture, sport, and communities — giving “Travel+” an ever richer meaning.

JETOUR now joins travelers worldwide across city, mountain, and wetland, exploring new possibilities through the deeper integration of technology and travel.

ABOUT JETOUR

Launched in 2018, JETOUR follows the “Travel+” strategy and has entered over 100 countries and regions, with 2,000+ sales and after-sales outlets. Its lineup includes the T Series for light off-road and the G Series for the premium luxury off-road market, covering urban commuting, family road trips, outdoor camping, and long-distance journeys.

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SOURCE JETOUR

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