Prenetics Announces MOU for a Strategic Investment and 5-Year Research Collaboration with Metavisionaries to Pioneer R&D on the International Space Station
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Insights
The collaboration between Prenetics and Metavisionaries, aiming to study accelerated aging in space, is a strategic move that taps into the unique conditions of space to advance healthcare on Earth. The zero-gravity environment of space is known to induce various physiological changes in humans, such as muscle atrophy and bone density loss, which mimic accelerated aging. By focusing on cellular solutions that promote rejuvenation, the research has the potential to uncover novel anti-aging therapies and enhance cellular health, which could have significant implications for the geriatric population and individuals with degenerative conditions.
Moreover, the involvement of high-profile former NASA scientists on the Prenetics Scientific Advisory Board brings a wealth of knowledge and credibility to the project. Their expertise in space research and its applications to medical technology could lead to breakthroughs that may be commercialized, creating new revenue streams for Prenetics and contributing to the growing market of health innovations derived from space research.
The announcement of Prenetics' research initiative and the associated Memorandum of Understanding with Metavisionaries and the UAE Space Agency is a significant development within the biotechnology sector. The biotech industry is keenly interested in the potential health applications stemming from space research and this partnership could position Prenetics at the forefront of this niche but expanding field.
Investors will likely monitor the progress of the inaugural research cube set to be sent to the ISS in 2024, as it represents the tangible commencement of Prenetics' space-related research activities. The success of these endeavors could enhance the company's valuation and attract further investments. It's also worth noting that collaborations with government space agencies can provide additional funding and resources, potentially reducing the financial burden on Prenetics and improving its risk profile.
The establishment of a Space Innovation Lab within the UAE Space Agency as part of the agreement is a notable development for the healthcare industry. This lab may serve as a hub for innovation, attracting talent and fostering a collaborative environment for the development of next-generation healthcare solutions. The focus on cellular health and longevity aligns with global healthcare trends emphasizing preventive medicine and personalized healthcare.
However, it is important for stakeholders to consider the long development timelines and high costs associated with space research. While the potential benefits are considerable, the path to market for space-derived health technologies is often complex and requires rigorous testing and validation. The strategic investment and the five-year research agreement indicate a long-term commitment, but stakeholders should maintain realistic expectations regarding the timeline for seeing tangible results that can be applied commercially.
(From left: Dr. Ghada Alsaleh, Sonia Pawelczyk, Danny Yeung, Dr. James L. Green, Ahmed Alfandi, Dr. Tara Ruttley, Wasim Ahmed, Dr. Hilde Stenuit, Dr. Camille Alleyne at the MOU signing ceremony in Dubai, UAE Space Agency)
- Initial research project is with NDORMS, Botnar Research Institute, University of Oxford, focusing on accelerated aging in space
- Dr. James L. Green, former Chief Scientist of NASA and Dr. Tara Ruttley, former Associate Chief Scientist of NASA to join Prenetics Scientific Advisory Board
- Inaugural research cube scheduled to be sent on-board SpaceX to the ISS in Q4 of 2024
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- UAE Space Agency – Prenetics Global Limited (NASDAQ:PRE), a leading genomics-driven health sciences company, announces the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), that paves the way for a strategic investment in Metavisionaries and a pioneering five-year research agreement with them and their partners Space Application Services through their Metaspace Venture. The parties will also establish a Space Innovation Lab within the UAE Space Agency. The inaugural Prenetics research cube is scheduled to on-board the SpaceX to the ISS in Q4 of 2024.
Mohsen Al Alwadi, Director of the Space Missions Department at the UAE Space Agency remarked: “The UAE Space Agency is thrilled to support the initiative of the Prenetics and Metavisionaries partnership, in building the space ecosystem by engaging non-space industry partners in innovation, space exploration and in human health.”
As space exploration ignites a new era of discovery, the first endeavor by Prenetics will be with the Botnar Institute for Musculoskeletal Sciences at the University of Oxford, NDORMS, led by Dr. Ghada Alsaleh. The joint project will be to research cellular solutions that promote rejuvenation and vitality to combat the phenomenon of accelerated aging in space due to its zero-gravity environment. The potential of this research could lead to new advances in healthcare, enhancing cellular health and longevity for all ages on Earth.
Danny Yeung, CEO of Prenetics stated: “Our collaboration with Metavisionaries underscores our dedication to innovation and our conviction in the transformative potential of space exploration to deliver ground-breaking health advancements on Earth.”
Ahmed Alfandi, President of Metavisionaries, said "Joining forces with Prenetics will lay the groundwork for monumental scientific advancements that have the potential to benefit all of humanity."
Prenetics is also proud to announce that Dr. James L. Green, Chairman of Metavisionaries and former Chief Scientist of NASA, alongside Dr. Tara Ruttley, Director of Sciences of Metavisionaries and former Associate Chief Scientist of NASA, will join the Prenetics Scientific Advisory Board. Concurrently, Danny Yeung, CEO of Prenetics will join the Board of Directors at Metavisionaries, fortifying its strategic vision.
"In my 42+ years at NASA, I've witnessed space research develop remarkable medical technologies which power CAT scanners, MRI, portable ECG machines, which have had significant medical and commercial success. I’m excited to contribute to Prenetics' mission and to translate space research into health innovations on Earth,” said Dr. James L. Green.
Press Contact
Eng. Msc. Camilo Reyes - camilo@metavisionaries.io
Press Contact
Investor Relations - investors@prenetics.com
About Prenetics
Prenetics, a leading genomics-driven health sciences company, is revolutionizing prevention, early detection, and treatment. Our prevention arm, CircleDNA, uses whole exome sequencing to offer the world's most comprehensive consumer DNA test. Insighta, our US
About Metavisionaries
Metavisionaries is a space and frontier technology company that is dedicated to advancing education, empowering the next generation of pioneers, and making space research and technology accessible to all. Founded by visionary leaders and former NASA scientists, Metavisionaries is dedicated to democratizing access to space research and fostering global innovation. Through our joint venture with Space Application Services, Metaspace, we provide direct access to frontier technologies and the International Space Station to industry, academia and the wider community.
Our goal is not only to inspire and educate, but to equip students, professionals and organisations with practical skills and knowledge that can be directly applied to their future careers and industries.
Space Application Services (SAS) is an innovative aerospace company headquartered in Brussels, with a mission to revolutionize space exploration and utilization through advanced engineering solutions and operational support. Founded in 1987, SAS has become a pivotal player in the aerospace industry, known for its commitment to pioneering sustainable and technologically advanced space applications.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company's goals, targets, projections, outlooks, beliefs, expectations, strategy, plans, objectives of management for future operations of the Company, and growth opportunities are forward-looking statements. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "target," "aim," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "potential," "continue," "is/are likely to," “poised to,” “set to” or other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based upon estimates and forecasts and reflect the views, assumptions, expectations, and opinions of the Company, which involve inherent risks and uncertainties, therefore they should not be relied upon as being necessarily indicative of future results. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to: the Company’s ability to further develop and grow its business, including new products and services; its ability to execute on its new business strategy in genomics, precision oncology, and specifically, early detection for cancer; its ability to identify and execute on M&A opportunities, especially in precision oncology; uncertainties inherent in the development of its cancer screening and detection tests, including the conduct of research activities, the initiation and completion of preclinical studies and clinical trials; uncertainties as to the availability and timing of results from preclinical studies and clinical trials; and the timing of and the Company’s ability to submit and obtain regulatory approval for its cancer screening and detection tests. In addition to the foregoing factors, you should also carefully consider the other risks and uncertainties described in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s most recent registration statement on Form F-1 and the prospectus therein, and the other documents filed by the Company from time to time with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.
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