Imaging


Using live-cell imaging systems to transform perspectives in drug discovery


Live-cell imaging has transformed the study of cell behaviour and function. The technique allows researchers to monitor internal cell structures, interactions and processes in real-time, and over time. In drug discovery, understanding the dynamic processes of cells provides an enhanced picture of drug pharmacology, enabling more reliable predictions of clinical responses earlier in the process. In this article, we highlight some of the key commercial products helping to drive the adoption of this valuable approach and how it could help improve efficiencies and advance the development of medicines.


By Helen Stewart-Miller and Dr Kate Tointon


T 20


raditional imaging experiments in drug discovery involve endpoint measurement approaches that typically use fixed cells


requiring staining or artificial labelling (for exam- ple, using genetically-encoded fluorescent pro- teins). These artificial conditions mean that the cells do not sufficiently mimic the complex in vivo cellular responses to pharmacological or molecu- lar perturbations that would be seen in the patient. “To increase the chance that a drug’s effects in


vitro translate to the clinic, cell models must be as physiologically relevant as possible, comments Tim Dale, Head of BioAnalytics Applications, Sartorius Corporation. “We also need to implement new methods to gather information over time. As biol-


ogy is incredibly dynamic and complex, single snapshots using endpoint measurements cannot provide the full picture.” Fortunately, a solution has emerged with the


advent of novel time-lapse microscopy technolo- gies. These enable powerful imaging analysis of live cells, fresh tissue or live in vivo models, per- formed in a time-resolved manner. Live-cell imag- ing enables the monitoring of internal cellular structures, processes and interactions to reliably determine the safety and efficacy of a drug, such as whether it selectively binds to the intended target or whether it has any off-target effects. These insights enable better predictions about which drugs will be successful in clinical development to reduce late-stage attrition.


Drug Discovery World Fall 2019


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