Understanding gene expression profiles
The EU-funded project CF-PRONET concentrated on the pathological mechanisms that result in the onset of cystic fibrosis (CF). CF is caused by a malfunctioning protein, the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR). CFTR acts as a membrane ion channel, regulating the flow of chloride ions in and out of cells. Understanding the full array of processes involved in cellular gene expression during a pathological state such as CF is an integral part of devising effective therapies for these pathologies. Germany-based concern, Clondiag Chip Technologies developed a genotyping technology to provide accurate gene expression profiles for a variety of cell lines. The purpose was to come up with a suitable tool for pharmaceutical testing purposes. The Clondiag AT-Platform can be used for the analysis of expression patterns of a series of genes, even those that are expressed in relatively low levels. Initial tests focused on 50 human genes. Results showed that Clondiag can offer a wide array of gene profiling solutions to the academic and private sector. The company is in a position to provide a robust set of tools able to detect even low level expression of genes. Such technology is key in trying to paint a complete picture of genetic and molecular interactions involved in disease states.
