Blockchain Press Releases
Kanazawa University research: Researchers define a protocol for narrow cantilever fabrication and high-resolution imaging of living cells using AFM
KANAZAWA, Japan, Aug. 9, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Researchers at Kanazawa University report in STAR Protocols procedural details and tips for nanoendoscopy-AFM, for capturing images of nanoscale structures inside living cells.
Images of nanoscale structures inside living cells are in increasing demand for insights into cellular structure and function they can reveal. So far, the tools for capturing such images have been limited in various ways, but researchers led by Takeshi Fukuma and Takehiko Ichikawa at Kanazawa University have now devised and reported a full protocol for using atomic force microscopy (AFM) to image inside living cells.
AFM was first developed in the 1980s and uses the changes in the forces between a sample surface and a nanoscale tip attached to a cantilever to “feel” surfaces and produce images of the topography with nanoscale resolution. The technique has grown increasingly sophisticated for extracting information about samples and at speeds sufficient for the tool to capture moving images of dynamics at the nanoscale. However, so far, it has been limited to surfaces. Other techniques exist that can provide a view of the inside of a cell but with limitations. For instance, there is electron microscopy, which is capable of resolving details at the nanoscale and smaller, but the required operating conditions are not compatible with living cells. Alternatively, fluorescence microscopy is regularly used on living cells, but while fluorescence techniques exist to increase the resolution, there are practical challenges that inhibit fluorescence imaging at the nanoscale. AFM suffers from neither limitation and by embellishing the tool with a nanoneedle to penetrate cells, Fukuma, Ichikawa and their collaborators have recently demonstrated the capability to image inside cells at the nanoscale, which they describe as nanoendoscopy-AFM.
In their protocol, the researchers break down the method for nanoendoscopy-AFM into 4 stages. The first few steps involve cell preparation and staining with a fluorescent dye and checking the fluorescence, which is used to identify the imaging area quickly. Next is the fabrication of the nanoneedles themselves, for which there are two options – either etching away a nanoneedle structure with a focused ion beam or building one up with electron beam deposition. Then comes the nanoendoscopy stage itself, and in the report, the researchers describe the approach for both 2D and 3D nanoendoscopy. There are even details outlined to describe the best way to clean up after the nanoendoscopy images are captured before finally outlining the data processing needed to visualize the measured data. The method is replete with tips for successfully accomplishing each stage, as well as a guide for troubleshooting when things are not quite working out.
This technique should be suitable for the observation of intact intracellular structures, including mitochondria, focal adhesions, endoplasmic reticulum, lysosomes, Golgi apparatus, organelle connections, and liquid-liquid phase-separated structures. They conclude, “This protocol can be expected to become a standard tool for studying nanoscale structures.”
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Caption: Overview of the method for observing actin fibers in living cells using nanoendoscopy-AFM. © 2023 Ichikawa, et al., STAR Protocols
Glossary
Atomic force microscopy
Atomic force microscopy detects the attractive forces between a sample surface and tip from the resulting deflection of a cantilever that bears a nanoscale tip. Because the tip gradually tapers to such a small area, and the attractive forces dwindle so rapidly with distance, the topography of the surface can be obtained with nanoscale resolution. The technique was first reported shortly after the scanning conductance microscope, and although it was not the first to report an imaging resolution potential on the atomic scale, it had the great advantage of operation requirements that are compatible with non-conducting samples and living cells. It has also since provided valuable insights into dynamic insights with the development of a high-speed version of the tool at Kanazawa University. The development of this nanoendoscopy-AFM to penetrate cells extends the scope of the tool even further.
In one variation of AFM, the tip oscillates up and down as it is scanned over a structure, and the effect of changes in the resonance frequency of the oscillating tip gives an indication of the forces it is subject to. Tapping, dynamic, or AC AFM, as this has been described, has been attractive for imaging fragile structures as no contact is made. Here it is used inside the cell for 2D nanoendoscopy. An alternative is 3D nanoendoscopy, where at each point that is raster scanned, the tip is retracted by a specified distance, which may be between 0.1 and 1 micrometres. The measured force until it reaches the set point is then noted at each point.
Reference
Takehiko Ichikawa, Mohammad Shahidul Alam, Marcos Penedo, Kyosuke Matsumoto, Sou Fujita, Keisuke Miyazawa, Hirotoshi Furusho, Kazuki Miyata, Chikashi Nakamura and Takeshi Fukuma
Protocol for live imaging of intracellular nanoscale structures using atomic force microscopy with nanoneedle probes, STAR Protocols September 15, 2023.
DOI：10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102468
URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102468
Contact
Hiroe Yoneda
Senior Specialist in Project Planning and Outreach
NanoLSI Administrative Office
WPI Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI)
Kanazawa University
Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +81 (76) 234-4550
About Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI)
https://nanolsi.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/en/
Nano Life Science Institute (NanoLSI), Kanazawa University is a research center established in 2017 as part of the World Premier International Research Center Initiative of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. The objective of this initiative is to form world-tier research centers. NanoLSI combines the foremost knowledge of bio-scanning probe microscopy to establish ‘nano-endoscopic techniques’ to directly image, analyze, and manipulate biomolecules for insights into mechanisms governing life phenomena such as diseases.
About Kanazawa University
http://www.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/e/
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.
Blockchain Press Releases
MEXC Lists 160 Tokens in April, Delivers Over 800% Returns Across Top Gainers
VICTORIA, Seychelles, May 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, has released its April 2025 trading highlights, showcasing impressive results in token performance, early listing advantages, and community-driven events like airdrops.
Key Takeaways:
- MEXC listed 160 new tokens in April, led by trends in Meme, GameFi, AI, and DePIN sectors.
- Top 10 new listings delivered an average of 832.33% ATH return, with HOUSE soaring +3,830%.
- Tokens with high spot trading volume saw daily returns averaging 403.49%.
- By pioneering listings for five key tokens—most notably HOUSE, which surged 11,580% between listings—MEXC gave users early access prior to their inclusion in IDO and alpha programs on other tier1 exchanges.
- Airdrop+ campaigns reached 40,000+ participants, distributing about $1.5M in token rewards with a 40 USDT average return per user.
According to the report, MEXC listed 160 new tokens in April, a 16.79% increase compared to March. This increase was driven by surging user interest in sectors such as Meme coins, GameFi, AI, and DePIN. This expansion of early-access opportunities reflects MEXC’s agile listing strategy and commitment to supporting new niches and communities.
Top New Listings Deliver 832% Average Peak Returns
MEXC’s strategic approach to listings paid off, with the top 10 tokens achieving an average all-time high return of 832.33%. HOUSE led the pack, posting a remarkable +3830.90% gain, followed by SEED (+952.63%) and TROLLSOL (+831.31%). These high performers span ecosystems including Solana, Sui, BSC, Ethereum, and Babylon.
Strong Daily Performance Tied to Trading Volume
April’s top 10 tokens by spot trading volume also posted robust short-term returns, with an average 24-hour return of 403.49%. Among them were the following assets:
- WCT (+849.40%)
- BANK (+937.10%)
- BABY (+738.00%)
The early token growth metrics highlight that activity on the platform is an important signal for early traders.
MEXC Empowers Traders with Early Price Discovery Capabilities
Notably, five tokens later featured in leading IDO and alpha programs were listed on MEXC prior to their program debuts, posting price gains of several hundred to several thousand percent between the two events:
- HOUSE: +11,580%
- PUMP: +281.54%
The report findings reinforced MEXC’s reputation as a platform where market momentum is often detected first.
Airdrop+ Events Attract 40,000 Participants, Drive New Token Buzz
MEXC ran 23 Airdrop+ campaigns during the month, attracting over 40,000 participants and distributing almost $1.5 million in tokens. The average return per participant was 40 USDT, with top-performing tokens like SEED, PUMP, and BABY included in the prize pools.
Airdrop+ has proven itself as a tool not only for attracting but also activating users, especially in Asian and emerging markets. A recent MEXC report based on the analysis of more than 100 campaigns in recent months revealed that up to 35% of new users register through participation in airdrop activities. Users involved in the campaign were more likely to continue active trading and participate in subsequent IDO/IEO offerings on the platform.
About MEXC
Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto.” Serving over 40 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, everyday airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
MEXC Official Website｜ X ｜ Telegram ｜How to Sign Up on MEXC
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Blockchain Press Releases
HashKey Group Announces Launch of HashKey Global MENA with VASP License in UAE
HONG KONG, May 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — HashKey Group (“HashKey”), a leading end-to-end digital asset financial services group in Asia Pacific, has secured a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license from Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). The license was granted to HashKey MENA FZE, the operating entity of HashKey Global MENA, marking the official launch of the company in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). With this license, HashKey Global MENA is authorized to provide both Virtual Asset Exchange Services and Virtual Asset Broker-Dealer Services within, and originating from, the Emirate of Dubai.
Securing the VASP license represents a significant milestone in HashKey’s market expansion strategy into the region. As the UAE continues to establish itself as the premier hub for digital assets in the Middle East, HashKey Global MENA will cater to consumers and enterprises seeking trusted, compliant access to virtual asset services.
To meet the growing institutional needs, the company will introduce a suite of products and services distinguished by several best in class features:
- USD and AED Deposits & Withdrawals: Offers fiat on and off-ramp, allowing users to directly transfer USD from their bank account to HashKey Global MENA’s fiat wallet. As a strategic partner, Standard Chartered provides fiat currency deposit and withdrawal services for the platform. Powered by the bank’s industry-leading (on & off)-ramp solution, the platform offers users a reliable, and highly efficient fiat deposit and withdrawal experience.
- OTC Services: HashKey Global MENA OTC delivers regulated block trading with competitive all-inclusive pricing, ensuring transparent quotes and zero hidden fees for market-leading rates. Large orders benefit from instant execution, eliminating slippage risks, while flexible settlement options cater to institutional and HNWI liquidity needs.
- Major Top 10 Tokens Available For OTC: Access top-tier cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), alongside stablecoins (USDT, USDC), available through OTC services through on and off ramps using USD and AED. BTC and ETH remain the most sought-after tokens, offering trusted liquidity and alignment with institutional demand. All assets are custodied on a VARA-licensed platform with institutional-grade safeguards.
“As a licensed platform, HashKey Global MENA embraces institutional needs by offering a regulated gateway for fiat-crypto transactions, backed by institutional-grade safeguards and strategic partnerships like Standard Chartered. Our regional expansion ambitions, with a strategic focus on the GCC, are rooted in empowering MENA’s institutions and HNWIs with seamless, cost-efficient access to global crypto markets, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a hub for blockchain innovation while prioritizing compliance and client protection at every step,” said Sherif Sanad, Country Manager, HashKey Global MENA.
The UAE has firmly established itself as the third-largest crypto economy in the MENA region. To meet the needs of this rapidly expanding market, HashKey Global MENA will deliver not just virtual asset trading services, but will continue to evolve and develop innovative digital asset products, designed and delivered within VARA’s robust regulatory and compliance framework.
“At HashKey, we believe innovation in crypto shouldn’t come at the cost of compliance. In fact, the industry’s future depends on building boldly—while staying within clear, trusted regulatory frameworks. That’s why we’re committed to working closely with regulators around the world to deliver reliable digital asset products and services on a global scale,” said Sherif Sanad, Country Manager, HashKey Global MENA.
HashKey Group already holds digital asset-related licenses from regulators in Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, and Bermuda, as well as VASP registration in Ireland. As part of its ongoing commitment to building a world-class regulatory footprint, the company is also actively pursuing a Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license in the European Union. The HashKey Global MENA exchange will be live starting from May 19th.
About HashKey Global MENA
HashKey Global MENA is the exchange business under HashKey Group, offering licensed crypto asset trading services to users worldwide. HashKey MENA FZE (VL/18/03/002), the operating entity of HashKey Global MENA, is licensed by the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) as a Virtual Asset Service Provider. Certain services, features, and campaigns may not be available in your jurisdiction.
Disclaimer: https://group.hashkey.com/disclaimer-group/blank-1
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Blockchain Press Releases
Bybit and Ghaf Labs Announce Strategic Partnership to Accelerate Web3 Adoption in the Middle East
DUBAI, UAE, May 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, and Ghaf Labs, a MENA-based Web3 boutique advisory and consultancy firm, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enter a multi-year strategic partnership. The alliance aims to drive crypto adoption, ecosystem development, and real-world utility across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).
This partnership underscores a shared mission to position the region as a global Web3 hub by enabling innovation, supporting regulatory clarity, and fostering meaningful use cases that integrate blockchain into daily life.
Ecosystem Growth and Startup Acceleration
Ghaf Labs, backed by Ghaf Capital Partners—Dubai’s pioneering blockchain-focused private capital firm—offers tailored advisory and incubation services to Web3 ventures across MENA. With its strong regional network and regulatory insight, Ghaf Labs plays a key role in scaling blockchain projects in one of the fastest-growing digital economies.
Together, Bybit and Ghaf Labs will provide equity-free grants, startup support, and access to strategic resources for ventures exploring blockchain, AI, and sustainability—sectors central to the region’s digital transformation.
“Our partnership with Ghaf Labs is rooted in a shared vision for the MENA region — one where crypto isn’t just adopted, but lived,” said Helen Liu, COO and Partner of Bybit. “From developer tooling to lifestyle integration, we’re building the bridges that bring crypto into everyday life.”
Investing in Talent and Community
The collaboration will also launch a series of education initiatives designed to nurture local Web3 talent. These include university partnerships, bootcamps, and developer hackathons, all aimed at empowering the next generation of blockchain builders.
Additionally, both parties will co-develop educational content to improve Web3 literacy across Arabic- and English-speaking communities in the region.
“This partnership with Bybit reflects our shared commitment to advancing Web3 infrastructure, education, and institutional engagement across the MENA region. Together, we aim to accelerate innovation and continue to position the UAE as a global hub for digital assets.”
— Feras Al Sadek, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Ghaf Labs
Lifestyle, Payments, and Cultural Impact
Beyond development, the partnership highlights the real-world utility of crypto through lifestyle applications like the Bybit Card. This product connects digital assets with premium experiences, including exclusive access through partners such as Grand Millennium Hotels in Dubai—demonstrating the role of crypto in elevating travel, luxury, and everyday spending.
The alliance will also elevate the regional event scene, co-branding marquee events like The Crypto Polo Cup and Crypto Fight Night. These gatherings merge luxury, sport, and Web3 culture to amplify awareness and engagement.
With this MOU in place, Bybit and Ghaf Labs will jointly explore innovation funding, institutional integration, and blockchain-powered use cases across finance, hospitality, education, and beyond—contributing to a resilient Web3 infrastructure in MENA.
This strategic collaboration reinforces the UAE’s status as a forward-thinking jurisdiction and reflects Bybit’s long-term investment in the region’s digital future.
#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk
About Ghaf Labs
Ghaf Labs is a boutique consultancy and advisory firm that specializes in web3 ventures, which are projects that use blockchain and decentralized technologies to create a more open, fair, and secure internet. Ghaf Labs helps web3 ventures expand their presence and adoption in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, by providing them with market insights, strategic partnerships, regulatory guidance, and community building.
About Bybit
Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 70 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open, and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.
For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press
For media inquiries, please contact: [email protected]
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