Fiscal Year:
2009
Title:
Pharmacological Impact of 3-Dimensional Extracellular Matrix on Tumor Cells
Agency:
HHS
Contract:
1R43CA141913-01
Award Amount:
$198,120.00
Abstract:
DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): There is a strong need in drug discovery for cellular assays that better predict human responses to drugs. A key technical hurdle has been the difficulty of incorporating 3-dimensional extracellular matrix into a powerf
ul assay format that is compatible with the high throughput approaches used for early drug discovery. In this proposal we intend to develop the methods and validating datasets that will allow the commercialization of a microchannel array device. The device
consists of an automatable array of microfluidic channels specifically designed for the culture of mammalian cells in three-dimensional format. This means that potential drug molecules that rely on 3-dimensional matrix can be found, and that artifacts bas
ed on 2D monolayer culture can be avoided. This device will be used to produce a small molecule screen in an improved pancreatic cancer cell model that recapitulates the in vivo microenvironment. Compounds that modulate tumor cell function in an extracellu
lar matrix- dependent manner will be isolated and characterized. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Cellular assays that are more predictive are greatly needed in the pharmaceutical industry to improve the success rate in clinical trials, and in biomedical research
in general to increase our understanding of disease mechanisms. In this proposal we plan to develop and commercialize a microchannel array device that will enable more physiologically relevant cellular assays in a high throughput, automated format.
Small Business Information at Submission:
BELLBROOK LABS, LLC
5500 Nobel Drive Suite 250 MADISON, WI 53711
EIN/Tax ID:
043661356
DUNS:
N/A
Number of Employees:
N/A
Woman-Owned:
No
Minority-Owned:
No
HUBZone-Owned:
No