Jason Indelicato on Understanding the Rise and Impact of Low-Code No-Code (LCNC) Platforms in 2025
LCNC platforms provide a solution to a pressing problem: how to create and deploy applications quickly without requiring specialized coding skills.
SALT LAKE CITY, UT, UNITED STATES, February 9, 2025 / EINPresswire.com / -- In today's fast-paced digital landscape, the demand for rapid software application development has never been greater. IT departments across various industries face increasing pressure to deliver applications that meet end-user expectations while managing a backlog of operations and maintenance work.
Traditional approaches to software development often fall short due to the limited availability of skilled developers and the time-consuming nature of coding. Enter Low-Code No-Code (LCNC) platforms—a revolutionary shift that is transforming how software is developed and deployed.
By 2025, 70% of new applications built by enterprises will use LCNC technologies, a significant increase from less than 25% in 2020. This meteoric rise is due to the simplicity, speed, and cost-efficiency that LCNC platforms offer, making them highly attractive to businesses looking to streamline digital transformation.
The Advent of Low-Code No-Code Platforms
LCNC platforms provide a solution to a pressing problem: how to create and deploy applications quickly without requiring specialized coding skills. These platforms offer visual development environments, where users can drag and drop components to build software, reducing the need for intricate programming knowledge.
While based on established coding languages like Python, PHP, and Java, the beauty of LCNC platforms lies in their user-friendly interface. Anyone with a basic understanding of business processes can now design applications.
Historically, early low-code platforms can be traced back to the development of Visual Basic, one of the first Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) to simplify coding. However, the concept of LCNC truly took off in the late 1990s and early 2000s with the rise of fourth-generation programming languages (4GL) and rapid application development tools. Even the spreadsheet—introduced as a tool in the 1960s—served as an early precursor to today's LCNC platforms, allowing users to perform complex calculations without writing a single line of code.
As technology has evolved, so too have LCNC platforms, which now enable users to bypass traditional development cycles, freeing up developers to focus on more complex, value-added tasks. These platforms leverage pre-built modules and libraries, enabling professional developers to create applications two to three times faster than traditional tools.
Key Advantages of Low-Code No-Code Platforms
Faster Development and Deployment Cycles: LCNC platforms significantly speed up the application development process by offering web-based drag-and-drop functionalities and reusable components. This allows organizations to develop, test, and deploy applications in a fraction of the time required by traditional coding methods.
Flexibility and Customization: Despite their simplicity, LCNC platforms allow users to customize applications to meet specific business needs. The level of customization depends on the platform, but advanced platforms provide a high degree of freedom, allowing users to configure applications on the fly.
Innovation at Speed: LCNC platforms enable developers to prototype their ideas quickly, providing a clear demonstration of project feasibility to executives. This rapid innovation cycle is further enhanced by the platform's configurability, which enables real-time adjustments and improvements during the development process.
Improved Customer Experience: With the rise of omnichannel services, LCNC platforms make it easier to integrate various systems, providing a consistent and seamless customer experience across all digital touchpoints.
Cost Savings and Reduced IT Infrastructure Needs: Many LCNC platforms are cloud-based, reducing the need for expensive on-premise infrastructure. This scalability allows organizations to innovate faster while keeping IT staffing and infrastructure costs down.
Increased Efficiency: Low-code and no-code platforms allow business teams to develop their own applications, addressing operational challenges without relying heavily on IT departments. This self-service capability leads to greater productivity across the organization.
Governance and Compliance: LCNC platforms provide centralized control over application portfolios, allowing IT teams to ensure compliance with industry regulations while maintaining security protocols.
Easier Debugging: Traditional codebases can be difficult to understand and maintain due to their complexity and the involvement of multiple developers. LCNC platforms simplify this process, making it easier to identify and fix bugs.
Greater Agility: As businesses face rapid market shifts, LCNC tools empower them to adapt quickly by enabling rapid deployment of applications that address new opportunities or challenges.
Challenges and Considerations
While LCNC platforms offer significant advantages, they are not without challenges:
Reduced Flexibility: Traditional coding allows developers to build highly customized solutions, whereas LCNC platforms may limit customization options. This is especially true for complex, enterprise-wide applications that require specific functionalities not offered by LCNC tools. However, this limitation can often be addressed through tenancy extensions, allowing users to tweak platform behavior with scripting languages.
Security and Risk: LCNC platforms are highly dependent on their providers to manage security and updates. Businesses relying on third-party LCNC platforms could face significant risks if these providers discontinue services or fail to address security vulnerabilities in a timely manner.
Vendor Lock-In: Organizations that build their applications on a specific LCNC platform may find it difficult to switch to another provider without significant cost and effort. This increases reliance on the chosen vendor, though this risk is mitigated for organizations developing in-house LCNC solutions.
A New Era of Software Development
'Despite these challenges, the benefits of LCNC platforms far outweigh the drawbacks for most businesses,' said Jason Indelicato. The shift from traditional coding to assembly and integration has paved the way for more collaborative, innovative, and efficient workflows. As businesses embrace digital transformation, the ability to quickly develop and deploy applications becomes increasingly critical to maintaining a competitive edge.
LCNC in Action: NIC's ServicePlus Platform
An exemplary case of LCNC's potential is NIC's ServicePlus platform—a metadata-based, open-source LCNC platform designed to streamline the rollout of online services. ServicePlus offers a configurable framework for service delivery and grievance redressal, allowing rapid deployment of e-services at any level of government. With over 2,300 e-services available, the platform has been adopted by 33 states and Union Territories, processing and delivering millions of applications each month.
'ServicePlus exemplifies the versatility and efficiency of LCNC platforms, demonstrating how they can be utilized to improve governance, enhance customer experience, and reduce operational complexity,' said Jason.
The Future of Low-Code No-Code
As LCNC platforms continue to evolve, their role in software development will only grow. The future of application development lies in the hands of both professional developers and business users, as these platforms democratize the process of creating digital solutions. Businesses of all sizes are poised to benefit from the agility, efficiency, and innovation that LCNC platforms provide, making them a critical component of the modern digital workplace.
According to Jason Indelicato, ultimately, the decision to adopt an LCNC platform depends on each organization's specific needs and goals. For businesses looking to accelerate their digital transformation, LCNC platforms offer a powerful toolset to build scalable, secure, and adaptable applications in record time.
About Jason Indelicato
Jason Indelicato is a highly experienced technology leader with over 26 years in software engineering and management. As the CEO and CTO of Vantage Custom Software, Jason oversees a team of skilled technologists focused on delivering cutting-edge web, mobile, and enterprise solutions to clients globally.
About Vantage Custom Software
Vantage Custom Software is a premier provider of custom software solutions, specializing in web, mobile, and enterprise applications, as well as system integration and cloud services.
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Jason Indelicato
Vantage Custom Software
200 South Main Street, Salt Lake City, Utah 84111
Email: [email protected]
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2 days ago
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Certain BlackRock Closed-End Funds Announce Estimated Sources of Distributions
NEW YORK, May 30, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, BlackRock Resources & Commodities Strategy Trust (NYSE: BCX), BlackRock Enhanced Equity Dividend Trust (NYSE: BDJ), BlackRock Energy and Resources Trust (NYSE: BGR), BlackRock Enhanced International Dividend Trust (NYSE: BGY), BlackRock Health Sciences Trust (NYSE: BME), BlackRock Health Sciences Term Trust (NYSE: BMEZ), BlackRock Enhanced Global Dividend Trust (NYSE: BOE), BlackRock Utilities, Infrastructure & Power Opportunities Trust (NYSE: BUI), BlackRock Enhanced Large Cap Core Fund, Inc. (NYSE: CII), BlackRock Science and Technology Trust (NYSE: BST), BlackRock Science and Technology Term Trust (NYSE: BSTZ), BlackRock Technology and Private Equity Term Trust (NYSE: BTX), BlackRock Capital Allocation Term Trust (NYSE: BCAT), and BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust (NYSE: ECAT) (collectively, the "Funds") paid the following distributions per share: Fund Pay Date Per Share BCX May 30, 2025 $0.069700 BDJ May 30, 2025 $0.061900 BGR May 30, 2025 $0.097300 BGY May 30, 2025 $0.042600 BME May 30, 2025 $0.262100 BMEZ May 30, 2025 $0.171210 BOE May 30, 2025 $0.082700 BUI May 30, 2025 $0.136000 CII May 30, 2025 $0.141000 BST May 30, 2025 $0.250000 BSTZ May 30, 2025 $0.219200 BTX May 30, 2025 $0.082340 BCAT May 30, 2025 $0.281320 ECAT May 30, 2025 $0.299770 Each of the Funds has adopted a managed distribution plan (the "Plan") to support a level monthly distribution of income, capital gains and/or return of capital, or in the case of BMEZ, BSTZ, BTX, BCAT and ECAT a monthly distribution based on an annual rate of 12% (for BMEZ, BSTZ and BTX) and 20% (for BCAT and ECAT) of the Fund's 12-month rolling average daily net asset value calculated 5 business days prior to declaration date of each distribution. The fixed amounts distributed per share or distribution rate, as applicable, are subject to change at the discretion of each Fund's Board of Directors/Trustees. Under its Plan, each Fund will distribute all available net income to its shareholders, consistent with its investment objectives and as required by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). If sufficient income (inclusive of net investment income and short-term capital gains) is not available on a monthly basis, the Funds will distribute long-term capital gains and/or return capital to their shareholders in order to maintain a level distribution. Each Fund's estimated sources of the distributions paid May 30, 2025 and for its current fiscal year are as follows: Estimated Allocations as of May 30, 2025 Fund Distribution Net Income Net Realized Short-Term Gains Net Realized Long-Term Gains Return of Capital BCX1 $0.069700 $0.014111 (20%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.055589 (80%) BDJ $0.061900 $0.015428 (25%) $0.006451 (10%) $0.040021 (65%) $0 (0%) BGR1 $0.097300 $0.016267 (17%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.081033 (83%) BGY1 $0.042600 $0.032396 (76%) $0 (0%) $0.010204 (24%) $0 (0%) BME $0.262100 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.262100 (100%) $0 (0%) BMEZ1 $0.171210 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.171210 (100%) BOE1 $0.082700 $0.024583 (30%) $0 (0%) $0.058117 (70%) $0 (0%) BUI $0.136000 $0.031777 (23%) $0.019076 (14%) $0.085147 (63%) $0 (0%) CII $0.141000 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.141000 (100%) $0 (0%) BST $0.250000 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.250000 (100%) $0 (0%) BSTZ $0.219200 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.219200 (100%) $0 (0%) BTX1 $0.082340 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.082340 (100%) BCAT1 $0.281320 $0.048342 (17%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.232978 (83%) ECAT1 $0.299770 $0.031324 (10%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.268446 (90%) Estimated Allocations for the Fiscal Year through May 30, 2025 Fund Distribution Net Income Net Realized Short-Term Gains Net Realized Long-Term Gains Return of Capital BCX1 $0.348500 $0.091412 (26%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.257088 (74%) BDJ $0.309500 $0.244379 (79%) $0.006451 (2%) $0.058670 (19%) $0 (0%) BGR1 $0.486500 $0.125900 (26%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.360600 (74%) BGY1 $0.213000 $0.061849 (29%) $0 (0%) $0.029762 (14%) $0.121389 (57%) BME1 $1.310500 $0.025851 (2%) $0 (0%) $1.264652 (96%) $0.019997 (2%) BMEZ1 $0.876970 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.876970 (100%) BOE1 $0.413500 $0.077915 (19%) $0 (0%) $0.185201 (45%) $0.150384 (36%) BUI $0.680000 $0.065711 (10%) $0.019076 (3%) $0.595213 (87%) $0 (0%) CII $0.705000 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.705000 (100%) $0 (0%) BST $1.250000 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $1.250000 (100%) $0 (0%) BSTZ $1.105720 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $1.105720 (100%) $0 (0%) BTX1 $0.426340 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.426340 (100%) BCAT1 $1.430620 $0.120094 (8%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $1.310526 (92%) ECAT1 $1.524000 $0.068607 (5%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $1.455393 (95%) 1The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its income and net-realized capital gains in the current fiscal year; therefore, a portion of your distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the shareholder's investment is paid back to the shareholder. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect the Fund's investment performance and should not be confused with 'yield' or 'income'. When distributions exceed total return performance, the difference will reduce the Fund's net asset value per share. The amounts and sources of distributions reported are only estimates and are being provided to you pursuant to regulatory requirements and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon each Fund's investment experience during the remainder of its fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. The Fund will send you a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes. Fund Performance and Distribution Rate Information: Fund Average annual total return (in relation to NAV) for the 5-year period ending on 4/30/2025 Annualized current distribution rate expressed as a percentage of NAV as of 4/30/2025 Cumulative total return (in relation to NAV) for the fiscal year through 4/30/2025 Cumulative fiscal year distributions as a percentage of NAV as of 4/30/2025 BCX 14.60% 8.62% 4.37% 2.87% BDJ 12.08% 8.36% 1.41% 2.79% BGR 17.52% 8.95% (2.41%) 2.98% BGY 9.32% 8.46% 5.33% 2.82% BME 6.72% 7.77% 0.88% 2.59% BMEZ 2.87% 13.53% (3.31%) 4.65% BOE 10.14% 8.49% (0.05%) 2.83% BUI 11.32% 7.04% 4.75% 2.35% CII 13.18% 8.52% (4.67%) 2.84% BST 9.75% 8.67% (10.22%) 2.89% BSTZ 8.09% 13.76% (13.52%) 4.64% BTX* (15.90%) 15.09% (17.80%) 5.25% BCAT* 4.78% 22.09% 0.29% 7.52% ECAT* 5.78% 22.37% (1.34%) 7.61% * Portfolio launched within the past 5 years; the performance and distribution rate information presented for this Fund reflects data from inception to 4/30/ should not draw any conclusions about a Fund's investment performance from the amount of the Fund's current distributions or from the terms of the Fund's Plan. BlackRock Income Trust, Inc. (NYSE: BKT), BlackRock Debt Strategies Fund, Inc. (NYSE: DSU), BlackRock Floating Rate Income Strategies Fund, Inc. (NYSE: FRA), BlackRock Taxable Municipal Bond Trust (NYSE: BBN), BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust (NYSE: BGT), BlackRock Corporate High Yield Fund, Inc. (NYSE: HYT), BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (NYSE: BTZ), BlackRock Limited Duration Income Trust (NYSE: BLW), BlackRock Core Bond Trust (NYSE: BHK) and BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (NYSE: BIT) have adopted a Plan to support a level monthly distribution of income, capital gains and/or return of capital. The fixed amounts distributed per share are subject to change at the discretion of each Fund's Board of Directors/Trustees. Under its Plan, each Fund will distribute all available net income to its shareholders, consistent with its investment objectives and as required by the Code. If sufficient income (inclusive of net investment income and short-term capital gains) is not available on a monthly basis, a Fund will distribute long-term capital gains and/or return capital to its stockholders in order to maintain a level distribution. Each of the above-listed Funds is currently not relying on any exemptive relief from Section 19(b) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). Each Fund expects that distributions under the Plan will exceed current income and capital gains and therefore will likely include a return of capital. Each Fund may make additional distributions from time to time, including additional capital gain distributions at the end of the taxable year, if required to meet requirements imposed by the Code and/or the 1940 Act. Each Fund's estimated sources of the distributions paid May 30, 2025 and for its current fiscal year are as follows: Estimated Allocations as of May 30, 2025 Fund Distribution Net Income Net Realized Short-Term Gains Net Realized Long-Term Gains Return of Capital BKT2 $0.088200 $0.037638 (43%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.050562 (57%) DSU2 $0.098730 $0.062975 (64%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.035755 (36%) FRA2 $0.123840 $0.076270 (62%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.047570 (38%) BBN2 $0.092900 $0.078792 (85%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.014108 (15%) BGT2 $0.120280 $0.073491 (61%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.046789 (39%) HYT2 $0.077900 $0.059385 (76%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.018515 (24%) BTZ2 $0.083900 $0.060538 (72%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.023362 (28%) BLW2 $0.113200 $0.086629 (77%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.026571 (23%) BHK2 $0.074600 $0.049308 (66%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.025292 (34%) BIT2 $0.123700 $0.075549 (61%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.048151 (39%) Estimated Allocations for the Fiscal Year through May 30, 2025 Fund Distribution Net Income Net Realized Short-Term Gains Net Realized Long-Term Gains Return of Capital BKT2 $0.441000 $0.176270 (40%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.264730 (60%) DSU2 $0.493650 $0.303399 (61%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.190251 (39%) FRA2 $0.619200 $0.393525 (64%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.225675 (36%) BBN2 $0.464500 $0.399895 (86%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.064605 (14%) BGT2 $0.601400 $0.360225 (60%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.241175 (40%) HYT2 $0.389500 $0.288880 (74%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.100620 (26%) BTZ2 $0.419500 $0.291695 (70%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.127805 (30%) BLW2 $0.566000 $0.423608 (75%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.142392 (25%) BHK2 $0.373000 $0.246869 (66%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.126131 (34%) BIT2 $0.618500 $0.377583 (61%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.240917 (39%) 2The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its income and net-realized capital gains in the current fiscal year; therefore, a portion of your distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the shareholder's investment is paid back to the shareholder. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect the Fund's investment performance and should not be confused with 'yield' or 'income'. When distributions exceed total return performance, the difference will reduce the Fund's net asset value per share. The amounts and sources of distributions reported are only estimates and are being provided to you pursuant to regulatory requirements and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon each Fund's investment experience during the remainder of its fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. Each Fund will send its stockholders a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will illustrate how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes. Fund Performance and Distribution Rate Information: Fund Average annual total return (in relation to NAV) for the 5-year period ending on 4/30/2025 Annualized current distribution rate expressed as a percentage of NAV as of 4/30/2025 Cumulative total return (in relation to NAV) for the fiscal year through 4/30/2025 Cumulative fiscal year distributions as a percentage of NAV as of 4/30/2025 BKT (1.20%) 8.81% 4.85% 2.94% DSU 9.17% 11.54% 0.32% 3.85% FRA 9.09% 11.99% (0.13%) 4.00% BBN 0.46% 6.47% 2.66% 2.16% BGT 9.19% 11.94% (0.01%) 3.98% HYT 7.96% 9.92% 0.62% 3.31% BTZ 3.98% 9.07% 1.60% 3.02% BLW 7.18% 9.90% 0.94% 3.30% BHK (0.56%) 8.73% 2.51% 2.91% BIT 8.84% 10.47% 1.13% 3.49% No conclusions should be drawn about a Fund's investment performance from the amount of the Fund's distributions or from the terms of the Fund's Plan. The amount distributed per share under a Plan is subject to change at the discretion of the applicable Fund's Board. Each Plan will be subject to ongoing review by the Board to determine whether the Plan should be continued, modified or terminated. The Board may amend the terms of a Plan or suspend or terminate a Plan at any time without prior notice to the Fund's shareholders if it deems such actions to be in the best interest of the Fund or its shareholders. The amendment or termination of a Plan could have an adverse effect on the market price of the Fund's shares. About BlackRock BlackRock's purpose is to help more and more people experience financial well-being. As a fiduciary to investors and a leading provider of financial technology, we help millions of people build savings that serve them throughout their lives by making investing easier and more affordable. For additional information on BlackRock, please visit Availability of Fund Updates BlackRock will update performance and certain other data for the Funds on a monthly basis on its website in the "Closed-end Funds" section of as well as certain other material information as necessary from time to time. Investors and others are advised to check the website for updated performance information and the release of other material information about the Funds. This reference to BlackRock's website is intended to allow investors public access to information regarding the Funds and does not, and is not intended to, incorporate BlackRock's website in this release. Forward-Looking Statements This press release, and other statements that BlackRock or a Fund may make, may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act, with respect to a Fund's or BlackRock's future financial or business performance, strategies or expectations. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words or phrases such as "trend," "potential," "opportunity," "pipeline," "believe," "comfortable," "expect," "anticipate," "current," "intention," "estimate," "position," "assume," "outlook," "continue," "remain," "maintain," "sustain," "seek," "achieve," and similar expressions, or future or conditional verbs such as "will," "would," "should," "could," "may" or similar expressions. BlackRock cautions that forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties, which change over time. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and BlackRock assumes no duty to and does not undertake to update forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements and future results could differ materially from historical performance. With respect to the Funds, the following factors, among others, could cause actual events to differ materially from forward-looking statements or historical performance: (1) changes and volatility in political, economic or industry conditions, the interest rate environment, foreign exchange rates or financial and capital markets, which could result in changes in demand for the Funds or in a Fund's net asset value; (2) the relative and absolute investment performance of a Fund and its investments; (3) the impact of increased competition; (4) the unfavorable resolution of any legal proceedings; (5) the extent and timing of any distributions or share repurchases; (6) the impact, extent and timing of technological changes; (7) the impact of legislative and regulatory actions and reforms, and regulatory, supervisory or enforcement actions of government agencies relating to a Fund or BlackRock, as applicable; (8) terrorist activities, international hostilities, health epidemics and/or pandemics and natural disasters, which may adversely affect the general economy, domestic and local financial and capital markets, specific industries or BlackRock; (9) BlackRock's ability to attract and retain highly talented professionals; (10) the impact of BlackRock electing to provide support to its products from time to time; and (11) the impact of problems at other financial institutions or the failure or negative performance of products at other financial institutions. Annual and Semi-Annual Reports and other regulatory filings of the Funds with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") are accessible on the SEC's website at and on BlackRock's website at and may discuss these or other factors that affect the Funds. The information contained on BlackRock's website is not a part of this press release. View source version on Contacts 1-800-882-0052 Sign in to access your portfolio
Associated Press
2 days ago
- Associated Press
Engineered ion channel offers precise, non-invasive control of brain activity
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Additionally, engineered ligand-gated ion channels, such as those based on nicotinic receptors, can result in unintended interactions with native proteins. These challenges have highlighted the need for a more efficient, non-invasive, and precise method of modulating neuronal excitability. In response to this gap, researchers sought to develop RADICAL, a novel chemogenetic tool that addresses these limitations. In a letter (DOI: 10.1093/procel/pwae048 ) published on September 3, 2024, in Protein & Cell, a team from Zhejiang University unveiled RADICAL, an engineered ion channel activated by cyclohexanol (CHXOL). By introducing specific mutations to the TRPM8 ion channel, they created a system that responds with exceptional sensitivity and specificity to CHXOL. This innovation allows for precise neuronal control without interfering with the brain's native functions, marking a significant step forward in chemogenetics. The key modification in RADICAL was the engineering of the TRPM8 ion channel, which is naturally expressed at low levels in the brain, minimizing potential disruptions to endogenous systems. The team introduced two critical mutations (I846F and I985K) to the TRPM8 ion channel. The I846F mutation restored CHXOL binding, while I985K enhanced voltage sensitivity, enabling robust activation even at hyperpolarizing potentials (-80 mV). Patch-clamp recordings and calcium imaging confirmed the double mutant, TRPM8-I846F-I985K's EC50 of 1.17 mmol/L for CHXOL at depolarizing potentials (+80 mV). In vivo, RADICAL demonstrated its potential: CHXOL administration enhanced fear extinction memory in mice by activating neurons in the infralimbic cortex (IL), and also increased locomotor activity when expressed in astrocytes of the ventral tegmental area (VTA). Importantly, the tool's calcium permeability and minimal cell death risk, as shown in HEK293T cells, suggest its suitability for studying calcium-dependent processes such as learning and memory. Dr. Fan Yang, one of the co-corresponding authors of the study, said: RADICAL represents a major breakthrough in chemogenetics. Its ability to modulate neuronal activity with high precision and minimal off-target effects makes it a versatile tool for both basic neuroscience research and the development of therapeutic interventions. With its non-invasive approach and high specificity, RADICAL has substantial potential in both research and clinical settings. It could enhance our understanding of neurological conditions such as memory disorders, addiction, and mood disorders by providing a precise way to manipulate neuronal circuits. Furthermore, future efforts to miniaturize the tool for adeno-associated virus (AAV) delivery could broaden its applicability in gene therapy. RADICAL's unique combination of speed, specificity, and safety positions it as a powerful platform for next-generation treatments of brain diseases. References DOI 10.1093/procel/pwae048 Original Source URL Funding Information This work was supported by funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (32122040 and 31971040 to F.Y.; 32071017 and 31922031 to Y.C.); Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China (LR20C050002 to F.Y.); China Postdoctoral Program for Innovative Talents (BX20230323 to H.Z.); China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (2024M752858 to H.Z.); The Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (226-2022-00227 to F.Y.; 226-2022-00149 to Y.C.); Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions (NYKFKT2019001 to Y.C.); The Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (226-2022-00227 to F.Y.). Lucy Wang BioDesign Research email us here Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Associated Press
2 days ago
- Associated Press
Xcel Talent Launches Dance Convention at DansMusik Fest in Albania, Auditioning European Dancers for U.S. Representation
VLORE, GA, ALBANIA, May 30, 2025 / / -- Xcel Talent Agency, a leading boutique agency renowned for representing top-tier dancers, choreographers, and actors, is set to elevate the global dance scene with the launch of a new dance convention at the highly anticipated DansMusik Fest 2025 in Vlorë, Albania. This exciting initiative, announced by agency founder Aris Golemi, aims to bridge European talent with opportunities in the U.S. entertainment industry through auditions, master classes, and performances, solidifying Vlorë's emerging status as 'The City of Dance ' from August 18-23, 2025. A New Chapter for DansMusik Fest Following the resounding success of the inaugural DansMusik Fest in 2024, which drew over 25,000 attendees to witness a headline performance by world-renowned DJ Steve Aoki, Xcel Talent Agency is expanding the festival's scope to include a comprehensive dance convention. The 2024 event, co-organized with Kuadr Events, transformed Vlorë's Lungomare into a vibrant celebration of music and dance, boosting local tourism and establishing the city as an emerging cultural hub. Building on this momentum, the 2025 edition will feature a week-long program of pop-up performances, spontaneous dance battles, live music, and now, a dedicated dance convention designed to spotlight and nurture talent. The convention, a first for DansMusik Fest, will offer European dancers a unique platform to showcase their skills through workshops led by top choreographers, master classes, and exclusive auditions for representation by Xcel Talent Agency in the U.S. market. 'DansMusik Fest is more than a festival—it's a movement to empower artists and foster cultural exchange,' said Aris Golemi, whose vision for Xcel International continues to redefine the entertainment landscape. Auditioning European Dancers for U.S. Representation A cornerstone of the new dance convention is Xcel Talent Agency's auditions, specifically targeting European dancers seeking representation in the U.S. Xcel, known for its rigorous standards and mentorship approach, represents talent for high-profile projects, including music videos, films, television, commercials, and live performances for artists like Beyoncé, Usher, Lady Gaga, Kendrick Lamar, Pitbull, and events such as the Oscars and Grammy Awards. The auditions will focus on a variety of dance styles, including contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, and more, welcoming dancers aged 13 and up from all ethnicities. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to join Xcel's roster, gaining access to the agency's extensive industry connections and personalized career guidance. 'We're looking for dancers who embody passion, professionalism, and a strong work ethic,' Golemi emphasized. 'Our goal is to connect Europe's brightest talents with opportunities to thrive on the global stage.' This initiative aligns with Xcel's mission to discover and nurture the next generation of stars, offering European dancers a rare chance to break into the competitive U.S. market. The agency's strategic partnership with other agencies further amplifies its ability to open doors for its clients across major markets like Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York, and Nashville. A Week of Dance and Cultural Exchange The dance convention at DansMusik Fest 2025 will be a dynamic addition to the festival's lineup, featuring master classes led by internationally acclaimed choreographers, workshops to refine technique, and opportunities for dancers to network with industry professionals. The event will also include pop-up performances and dance battles along Vlorë's scenic Lungomare, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the fusion of dance, music, and Albanian culture. 'Vlorë's rich cultural heritage and vibrant energy make it the perfect backdrop for this convention,' Golemi noted. 'We want dancers to leave inspired, empowered, and connected to a global community of creators.' The convention will also foster cultural exchange, with international artists and attendees collaborating to create memorable performances that highlight Vlorë's growing reputation as a cultural destination. Economic and Cultural Impact The addition of the dance convention is expected to further amplify the economic benefits seen during the 2024 festival, which saw sold-out accommodations and increased patronage for local businesses. By attracting dancers, choreographers, and industry professionals from across Europe and beyond, DansMusik Fest 2025 aims to position Vlorë as a must-visit destination for dance enthusiasts and tourists alike. A Vision for the Future Under Aris Golemi's leadership, Xcel Talent Agency continues to push boundaries in the entertainment industry. A former dancer and choreographer with a Bachelor's Degree in Choreography from the Academy of Fine Arts in Tirana, Golemi's achievements have earned him recognition as one of the top dance agents in US. His agency's boutique approach, emphasizing quality and mentorship, has made it a trusted name for artists worldwide. The launch of the dance convention at DansMusik Fest marks a bold step in Xcel's mission to empower artists and redefine global entertainment. As Vlorë prepares to become 'The City of Dance' in August 2025, dancers across Europe have a unique opportunity to take their careers to new heights with Xcel Talent Agency. For more information about DansMusik Fest and the dance convention, including audition details, visit For inquiries about Xcel Talent Agency and representation opportunities, visit Aris Golemi XCEL TALENT AGENCY +1 4045144258 email us here Visit us on social media: Instagram Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
