Automation Of HTRF® elF4E Kinase Assay Using A 3D Tumoroid- Based Cell Model

By Brad Larson, Peter Banks, Nicolas Pierre and Grant Cameron

Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture is poised to meet the need for a more in vivo-like cellular model with which to test large and small molecules. This is accomplished by providing a method that allows for the reorganization of cells into a format which re-establishes the necessary cellular architecture and communication networks seen in normal tissue. Recently a methodology has been put forth that incorporates a simplified procedure for the creation of a cell and collagen hydrogel mix. The inclusion of appropriate liquid handling instrumentation can further simplify the process and ensure the generation of accurate, robust results.

A central focus for improving drug efficacy in clinical trials over the last decade has been to increase the biological relevance of assays performed early in the drug discovery process. Biochemical assays used in screening campaigns are being replaced by cell-based, functional assays at ever increasing rates. Initially, these assays typically used the over-expression of drug targets in immortalized cell lines; but now more and more assays are conducted with human primary cells with endogenous expression of drug targets.