targetFINDER
RNAi or CRISPR/Cas9 assays to study role of individual genes
targetFINDER is an innovative assay designed to understand the intricate role of individual genes within complex signaling networks by combining the power of pooled screenings using RNAi (RNA interference) or CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technologies with optimized cellular activity sensors. This integrated approach allows us to precisely measure the influence of specific genes on cellular functions, thereby unveiling their roles in broader biological processes. By offering deep insights into gene function, targetFINDER is a valuable tool for mode-of-action studies, particularly in the context of phenotypic screens where the primary targets of compounds are often unknown.
Methodology
targetFINDER is an advanced tool that integrates RNAi (RNA interference) or CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technologies with specialized cellular sensors that measure defined pathway activities. The process begins with the identification of an optimal pathway sensor through conducting an upstream pathwayProfiler assay. Once this sensor is selected, targetFinder employs it to systematically assess the impact of each gene, as modulated by RNAi or CRISPR/Cas9 libraries, on cellular functions.
This methodology is especially powerful in mode-of-action studies, where the objective is to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind the effects of compounds discovered in phenotypic screens. By linking gene activity to specific cellular outcomes, targetFinder enables researchers to elucidate the roles of genes in complex biological processes.
Key Features
- Integration with RNAi and CRISPR/Cas9: targetFINDER leverages the precision of RNAi and CRISPR/Cas9 technologies, enabling targeted manipulation of gene expression to study its effects on cellular signaling and behaviour.
- Optimized Sensor Selection: Prior to gene function analysis, pathwayProfiler is used to identify the most suitable cellular sensor, ensuring that the analysis is both relevant and accurate.
- Phenogenomic Target Identification: targetFinder is particularly effective in identifying new gene targets and understanding their roles at a molecular level, a process known as phenogenomic target identification.
- Mode-of-Action Elucidation: Ideal for mode-of-action studies, targetFINDER helps to clarify how compounds identified in phenotypic screens influence specific cellular phenotypes, such as neuronal activity or cell proliferation, through the modulation of molecular targets.
Applications
targetFinder is a versatile tool with broad applications in the field of molecular biology and pharmacology:
- Drug Discovery and Development: In the pharmaceutical industry, targetFINDER is invaluable for identifying the molecular targets of drug candidates, particularly those isolated in phenotypic screens.
- Functional Genomics: Researchers studying gene function can use targetFINDER to systematically analyze the roles of individual genes within complex signaling networks. This is particularly useful for understanding diseases linked to specific genetic pathways.
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Ready to take your research to the next level? Contact us today to learn more about our services, pricing, and how we can help you achieve your scientific goals.
Ready to take your research to the next level? Contact us today to learn more about our services, pricing, and how we can help you achieve your scientific goals.