Our biomarker technology platforms:
Genomics
We use sequencing technologies to identify novel targets and biomarkers and can analyze the mode of action of development compounds at unprecedented resolutions.
Our NGS platform services include:
- whole-genome sequencing (WGS), whole-exome sequencing (WES), RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), methylome, ChIP-seq, ATAC-seq
- single cell sequencing, including experimental design, professional execution in the lab, in-house NGS sequencing, and state-of-the-art bioinformatic analysis
- analysis of preclinical and clinical samples
Read more: Functional Genomics
Proteomics
Proteomics techniques can measure the expression levels of thousands of proteins simultaneously, allowing for the quick and efficient identification of potential biomarkers.
We offer quantitative proteomic analysis of complex biological samples from various sources, such as tissue, cell lysates, and body fluids. Available workflows include isobaric and metabolic labeling approaches, as well as label-free measurements, phospho-proteomics, protein interaction profiling, and targeted assays. Our in-depth experience in proteomics is complemented by comprehensive statistics and bioinformatics services. This allows us to not only analyze and interpret complex proteomic data, but also put it into the context of specific research questions, providing a deeper understanding of underlying biological mechanisms.
Cytokine Profiling
Immunoprofiling is an integral part of drug discovery. It plays a critical role in identifying and validating drug targets, optimizing drug candidates, and predicting clinical efficacy and safety. We use immunoprofiling to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms of action of potential drugs and identify biomarkers that can be used to select patient populations that are most likely to benefit from novel immunotherapies.
We offer comprehensive profiling using panels for oncology, immunology/inflammation (cytokines/chemokines), and other indications using the platforms Meso Scale (MESO SECTOR S 600, MESO QuickPlex SQ 120), homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Our human peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PMBC) inflammation platform includes various disease-specific readouts.
Read more: Primary cell-based assays
Flow Cytometry
Multicolor flow cytometry is a valuable tool in drug discovery for identifying new drug targets, screening potential drug candidates, and analyzing the effects of drugs on specific cell populations.
We offer comprehensive panels for Immuno-profiling, and also assays for all major immune cell populations, established and validated for mouse and human.
Applications:
- Biomarker identification and validation
- Immuno-profiling of all immune cell populations for immuno-oncology
- Cytokine and functional profiling
- Phosphorylation assays
- Analysis of preclinical and clinical samples
Immunohistochemistry
Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a powerful tool that can be used for identification and validation of novel drug targets, characterization of disease pathology, evaluation of drug efficacy in preclinical models and clinical trials, and patient selection based on their biomarker profiles, allowing for more targeted and personalized treatment approaches.
Our IHC services:
- IHC assay development, optimization, and fit-for-purpose validation (specificity, reproducibility, and stability of assay and analytes)
- Novel antibody validation using samples (cell lines and primary tissue, healthy and diseased) from our biobank
- Single and multicolor chromogenic and fluorescent stainings with options for manual and automatic IHC stainings
- Digital imaging analysis and options for semi-automated quantification or HScore by board certified in-house pathologists
- Analysis of preclinical and clinical samples
T-cells (green) versus NK cells (brown) in human spleen
Spatial Profiling by Multicolor Immunofluorescence (mIF)
We offer spatial profiling using multicolor immunofluorescence to identify different types of immune cells that infiltrate a tumor, such as T cells, B cells, natural killer cells, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. We have established multiple markers for IF and IHC.
Read more: Immunohistochemistry
Co-expression analysis of two tumor markers in human colon cancer tissue
RNA in Situ Hybridization (RNAscope™)
We offer RNA in situ hybridization using RNAscope™ technology, enabling in situ detection and quantification of single RNA molecules, providing spatial gene expression results. We also use RNA in situ hybridization to independently cross-validate antibodies for IHC or as an alternative assay in case no suitable antibody for IHC can be identified. We offer single and dual fluorescent and chromogenic stainings, as well dual IHC-RNAscope™ duplex staining for the analysis of preclinical and clinical samples.
Tumor cell-specific MET expression in gastric cancer visualized by chromogenic RNAscopeTM
Co-expression of two mRNAs in human ovarian Cancer visualized by dual-fluoresence RNAscopeTM
qRT-PCR
Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) is a highly sensitive and specific technique used to measure gene expression levels in biological samples. It is rapid and cost-effective, which makes it an attractive option for high-throughput screening of biomarker responses to potential drug candidates. We offer qPCR profiling of preclinical and clinical samples in a 384-well format.
Protein Expression
We offer protein expression profiling of preclinical and clinical samples using Simple Western technology (Simple Western Jess and Peggy Sue). Simple Western automates the protein separation and immunodetection of traditional Western blotting, eliminating many error-prone steps.
In addition to size-based separation, we also offer Simple Western capillary isoelectric focusing (cIEF) for the characterization of post-translational protein modifications.
Capillary isoelectric focusing (cIEF) of pan AKT and phospho AKT S473 in Hela cell lysates. Peaks correspond to different AKT isoforms with distinct post-translational modifications (e.g., phosphorylation).
Proximity Ligation (In Situ PLA)
Proximity ligation assays can be used to study endogenous protein–protein interactions in situ. We offer proximity ligation assays and assay development for your targets.
EGFR-Her2 complex formation in EGF-treated cancer cells
Anti-Her2 + anti-EGFR
Blood-Based Biomarker Assays
Blood-based biomarker assays are a critical component of drug discovery and development, providing valuable information about the safety and efficacy of potential drug candidates in easily obtainable samples.
We offer:
- whole blood in vitro assays in 96-well and 384-well formats
- multiplex screening for biomarker candidates, such as by using MSD panels
- assay optimization in vitro, followed by ex vivo validation in relevant disease models
- transfer to clinical trial assay format, such as TruCulture® assay
