Development of phenotypic assays on novel 3-dimensional platforms for pharmacological profiling of compounds

This project aims to develop novel phenotypic screening systems in which cells are grown in 3D in electrospun polymer microscaffolds in suspension and to evaluate this system with stem cells, recombinant cells and primary cells in a suite of model assays using luminescence, fluorescence and imaging readouts. Adherent cells in 3D could be manipulated as if they were in suspension, providing convenience in passaging and plating, facilitating the adoption of more physiologically relevant 3D assays in high throughput sysyems. The project is led by Aurelia Bioscience, an SME Contract Research Organisation, with expertise in developing cell-based assays and in phenotypic screening, in collaboration with The Electrospinning Company, an SME with expertise in development and manufacture of polymer scaffolds for 3D cell culture. Takeda Cambridge will provide guidance to ensure the technology remains commercially relevant throughout the development project as well as transferring technology for specific assays of importance to their drug discovery programme.