Prevalidation of novel alternative pharma-/toxicological screening based on yeast expression technology

Objective

The project aims to the revalidation of a novel alternative pharma-/toxicologicalscreening on potassium channels involved in human diseases based on yeast expression. Ion channels conduct the nerve impulses and mediate the effects of many signal molecules. Potassium (K) channels are by far the most diverse group onion channels known and participate in a wide range of physiological responses. Inmost cells they are responsible for maintaining the resting potential. In excitable tissue currents mediated by K channels underlie the depolarisation of the action potential. Severe diseases connected to K channel dysfunction are ventriculartachycardia, hypertension, deafness and metabolic disorders. The yeast-based screening technology will provide a reliable system for pharmacy- /toxicological analysis and a bioassay for rapid identification of chemical and pharmaceutical compounds and has thus the potential to reduce the need for animal experimentation.

Programme(s)

• FP5-LIFE QUALITY - Specific Programme for research, technological development and demonstration on "Quality of life and management of living resources", 1998-2002

Topic(s)

• 1.1.1.-3. - Key action The "Cell factory"

Funding Scheme

Coordinator

Participants (6)