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Quantitative Analysis of Cell Edge Dynamics during Cell Spreading
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An open source based high content screening method for cell biology laboratories investigating cell spreading and
Andre Schmandke1, Antonio Schmandke, Maurianne A Pietro
1Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich and Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
Plos One
|November 9, 2013
Summary
Researchers developed an open-source, high-content screening method to identify novel adhesion modulators. This cost-effective approach successfully identified compounds influencing cell adhesion and spreading, including clomipramine hydrochloride, which also promoted neurite outgrowth in neurons.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Pharmacology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Adhesion-dependent mechanisms are crucial for biological processes, diseases, and therapeutics.
- Existing adhesion assays are often time-consuming, lack sensitivity, or require expensive equipment.
- There is a need for rapid, economical, and high-content screening methods for adhesion modulators.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a fully open-source, high-content screening method for identifying modulators of cell adhesion.
- To detect small molecules influencing cell adhesion and spreading.
- To specifically identify compounds counteracting Nogo-A-Δ20-induced inhibition of adhesion and spreading.
Main Methods:
- Development of a fully open-source high-content screening platform.
- Utilizing Swiss-3T3 fibroblasts for cell adhesion and spreading assays.
- Testing identified modulators on primary neurons for effects on growth and neurite outgrowth.
Main Results:
- Successfully established and validated an open-source high-content screening method.
- Identified small molecules influencing general cell adhesion and spreading.
- Discovered clomipramine hydrochloride inhibits Nogo-A-Δ20-induced cell spreading inhibition and promotes neurite outgrowth in primary neurons.
Conclusions:
- A versatile, open-source high-content screening approach for adhesion modulators has been developed and validated.
- This method is accessible to standard cell biology laboratories, not just specialized screening centers.
- The adaptable platform enables investigation of various compounds and siRNAs on adhesion and related molecules.
