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HTS assays of apoptosis The identification of apoptotic drugs remains one of the highest priorities of the pharmaceutical industry, with over 100 products being listed in development in 2001. Most drugs in development for cancer will at some time in their development be tested for apoptotic activity and indeed HTS of proapoptotic molecules remains a strategy for identifying new cancer therapies. On the other hand, the inhibition of apoptosis is an option for the treatment of various ischemic diseases such as myocardial infarction and neuro-degeneration. In order to identify both pro- and anti-apoptotic molecules, reproducible, easy-to-handle, and rapid microplate-based assays that are amenable to HTS are required. In our last edition of TherapeuticAdvances we featured technology developed by PROCREA researchers that uses fluorescence technology to determine cell toxicity. In this edition we focus on assays developed by MSD researchers to determine apoptotic events within the mitochondrion of neuroblastoma cells, in particular the mitochondrial permeability transition event which is implicated in the activation phase of apoptosis and necrosis. This phenomenon was assayed through the use of the fluorescent dye, calcein-AM while at the same time, a second fluorescent dye, JC-1 facilitated the discovery of modulators of mitochondrial polarization. This assay has been shown to be capable of identifying candidate modulators of apoptosis under HTS conditions. LeadDiscovery and BioPortfolio aims to provide reliable, insightful analysis on the biotechnology industry. However, this information is provided "as is" and no representations or warranties either express or implied of completeness, accuracy, or of any other nature are made with respect to this information. This information is neither an offer to sell nor a solicitation to buy the securities of any company. This information contains forward-looking statements, which involve risks and uncertainties which may not be listed. The biotechnology industry is an emerging industry and the securities of the companies mentioned in this report have a very high degree of risk and volatility. For this reason, this information is supplied on the condition that the reader will make his or her own determination as to its suitability for any purpose prior to any use of this information. The employees and officers of LeadDiscovery and BioPortfolio may hold positions in some or all of the stocks discussed in this report. This abstract has been produced by LeadDiscovery Ltd. Founded by life scientists for life scientists we aim to help industry identify cutting edge drug discovery options and academic/biotech institutions maximize the potential of their research. Abstracts strictly reflect the opinion of LeadDiscovery's editorial panel. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure the accuracy of information provided LeadDiscovery and the publisher BioPortfolio, takes no responsibility for incorrect or misleading information. LeadDiscovery is designed for educational and drug development purposes only and is not intended or designed to offer medical advice or advice of any sort, and must not be used for such purpose. The information provided through LeadDiscovery and BioPortfolio should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease and no reliance should be placed on any information contained in this abstract or elsewhere on LeadDiscovery's and BioPortfolio's website. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your physician or other health care provider. |
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