Genomics
revealed a heterogeneous distribution of fluores- cently labelled FtsZ throughout the Z ring. Furthermore, gaps in the fluorescent signal sug- gested a discontinuous structure. The gaps were approximately 118-200nm in size and could not be resolved using conventional fluorescence microscopy. “Moreover, visualisation of these gaps requires that the 3D-SIM image is rotated around the z-axis and viewed in the axial plane in B. subtilis,” stated the authors.
Based on these findings, the authors concluded that FtsZ molecules, as well as other components of the bacterial divisome examined as part of the study, maintain a dynamic bead-like distribution across the Z ring that can change before and dur- ing constriction of the ring, challenging the exist- ing concept of a homogeneous, continuous struc- ture that wraps around the cell. These new insights were made possible by the ability to view the entire 3D architecture of the Z ring in live bacteria at high resolution over time. They led to novel theo- ries of how the Z ring constricts and what triggers constriction and cytokinesis.
Cells – the vanguard of personalised medicine
The biotherapeutics industry is increasingly focus- ing on cell-based therapies. Though still in its early days, there are nearly 3,000 cell therapies in devel- opment and more than 500 clinical studies under- way worldwide. Cell therapy takes advantage of the body’s innate ability to repair itself. The thera- peutic potential of cell therapy spans cell, tissue and organ types, and is being explored across a range of diseases including those with large unmet need such as cancer, heart disease and neurodegen- erative disorders.
The development of cell therapies depends first and foremost on a strong foundation of knowl- edge about the cells targeted for use in a clinical application. Well-defined metrics and methods are needed to quantify ranges for what represents nor- mal and optimal cell function and growth in a lab- oratory and commercial setting. These efforts will not only support the development of robust, reproducible and standardised protocols for early- stage development and testing of therapeutic strategies and later-stage scale-up and manufac- turing, but will ultimately be critical to meet regu- latory requirements and ensure quality control and the safety of all those who come in contact with the cells.
Advanced technologies and workflows designed to study, grow, process, transform and analyse cells must be in place before routine cell therapy can
Drug Discovery World Spring 2013
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