ISRAEL INNOVATION PROJECT

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have discovered that the BMAL1 protein, part of the body's circadian clock, plays a key role in regulating the response to oxygen deficiency, working with the HIF-1a protein. Their study shows that this interaction varies throughout the day, with a weaker response at night, which may explain why oxygen-related diseases are more common in the early morning. Additionally, their findings link liver disease to impaired lung function, providing insights into conditions like hepatopulmonary syndrome and potential future therapies.

Researchers at Tel Aviv University, in collaboration with the University of Haifa, have identified a mutation in the SHANK3 gene linked to approximately one million autism cases worldwide, marking a significant step in understanding genetically based autism. Led by Prof. Boaz Barak, doctoral student Inbar Fischer, Prof. Ben Maoz, and Prof. Shani Stern, the study highlights the potential for developing treatments to alleviate symptoms of this specific autism type.

Researchers at Tel Aviv University found that the NMDA receptor (NMDAR), known for its role in learning and memory, also stabilizes brain activity by setting neural baseline levels. Published in Neuron, the study led by Prof. Inna Slutsky used advanced techniques to show how NMDARs regulate network stability and revealed links to ketamine’s rapid antidepressant effects. These findings could lead to new treatments for depression, Alzheimer’s, and epilepsy.

A new report by Startup Nation Central highlights Israel's emergence as a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI), with AI startups comprising 30% of the country’s 7,000 startups but attracting 47% of all investment. These startups, which have nearly tripled in number since 2014, raised $3.9 billion in 2023, compared to $4.4 billion raised by non-AI companies, whose growth has been slower. Israel's AI ecosystem benefits from robust early-stage funding and the presence of global tech giants like NVIDIA, Microsoft, and Google, alongside more than 400 multinational research centers.

This year, TIME Magazine’s Best Inventions list featured 10 Israeli innovations, highlighting the nation’s influence in technology, healthcare, and sustainability. Notable contributions included Nuvo’s Invu pregnancy monitor, Aporia’s AI Guardrails, OrCam Hear’s AI hearing aid, BeeHero’s beehive monitor, and InnerPlant’s CropVoice platform.

Israeli AI startups Fermata and yieldsApp have partnered to create a farm management solution that uses real-time crop monitoring and tailored recommendations. Their system detects pests, diseases, and nutrient issues, reducing chemical use by 25% and crop losses by 30%. This eco-friendly approach aims to enhance yields amid rising climate challenges, benefiting sustainable and efficient farming.

With more couples starting families later in life, IVF has become a common solution for fertility challenges, but it carries risks like preterm births and low birthweight. To address this, Israeli company PregnanTech has developed Lioness, a non-surgical device designed to delay preterm labor. Inserted via a quick outpatient procedure, it remains stable throughout pregnancy and self-releases during active labor. Successfully tested in early trials, the device aims to improve outcomes for high-risk pregnancies, with further trials planned.

Israeli company Innoventric has secured $28.5 million in Series B funding to further develop its novel treatment for Tricuspid Regurgitation, a condition impacting cardiac blood flow. By attaching a prosthetic valve to the vena cava rather than the heart, this minimally invasive procedure avoids the need for general anesthesia and is beneficial for patients ineligible for more complicated traditional treatments. The funding will facilitate additional clinical trials and regulatory approvals.

A Tel Aviv University study reveals that the peculiar metabolic system of Oriental hornets allows them to consume high concentrations of naturally occurring alcohol without any negative effects. Unlike animals like fruit flies and tree shrews that do get adversely affected by alcohol, the hornets metabolize alcohol rapidly and show no signs of intoxication or health issues. This unique ability, possibly linked to a genetic trait, can be useful in researching alcohol metabolism in humans.

Israel’s Eco Wave Power is expanding its patented technology for generating energy from sea-waves to the east coast of Taiwan in a 100KW pilot project fully financed by I-Ke International Ocean Energy. With plans to manufacture components locally and expand capacity to 400MW over time, the project will leverage Taiwan's technological abilities and vast coastline for renewable energy, and also generate local employment opportunities.