Gene Expression Analysis
Our team has proven expertise in developing, optimising and validating gene expression readouts throughout the whole drug discovery process. We can customise a gene expression readout with our in vitro, in vivo or ex vivo assay systems to support a range of drug discovery projects, ensuring an understanding of mechanism of action (MOA), signalling pathways or downstream gene regulation.
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DNA/RNA Isolation and Purification
High-quality DNA/RNA starting material is essential for numerous downstream molecular biology techniques. Employing established protocols for high throughput nucleic acid isolation and purification we can obtain high-quality material from diverse cells and tissue. Accurate quality and quantity measurements are achieved using fluorescent based assays and Agilent® instrumentation to guarantee the highest quality.
Quantitative PCR (qPCR)
In drug discovery, understanding the effects of test biologics or small molecules on gene expression can be a key component of your program.
Our real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) service is tailored to meet the unique needs of your project. Highly specific and sensitive, qPCR is a versatile high-throughput confirmatory method to validate and quantify gene expression of drug targets, pharmacodynamic (PD) markers, or predictive biomarkers, helping you better understand your compound or target and resolve the molecular mechanism of action.
Our qPCR platform is designed to support drug discovery projects performed with both supplied samples, as well as high quality cellular and animal models, offering a complete in-house service from sample generation through to analysis.
NanoString
A highly sensitive and precise automated solution for multiplex analysis of up to 800 RNA or DNA targets. NanoString’s nCounter® is PCR-free, eliminating amplification bias, bridging the gap between qPCR and Next Generation Sequencing (NGS).
Through a close collaboration with the University of Edinburgh we offer off-the-shelf and custom panels for Immunology, Immuno-oncology & Oncology, and Neuroscience. This enables determination of signalling pathways and the regulation of downstream gene profiles in challenging sample types such as FFPE, tissue, crude-cell lysates, and biofluids.
In-Situ Hybridisation
Investigate tissue distribution and localization of drug targets or biomarkers with unparalleled specificity and sensitivity. Detect up to 4 RNA targets on the same tissue and combine RNA and protein detection on a single slide for a comprehensive understanding.
In-situ hybridisation (iSH) delivers RNA detection and visualization within intact tissue, providing Spatial Biology context. This enables the investigation of tissue distribution and localisation of drug targets or biomarkers in a highly specific and sensitive manner. We use RNAscope and BaseScope assays on a fully automated Leica BOND autostainer, providing high-quality, high-throughput, and reliable RNA detection.