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VTT starts to investigate Bayer Schering Pharma’s preclinical anti-cancer compounds
25.08.2009
3D cancer cell culturing model accelerates development of cancer drugs
The VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and Bayer Schering Pharma AG, Germany have signed a two-year research contract to study the mode of action of a Bayer Schering Pharma’s preclinical cancer drugs. As part of this contract, VTT will use its new gene and cancer biology methods such as the 3D-cell culture model developed at VTT’s Medical Biotechnology unit in Turku, Finland.
In the research, VTT will utilise newly developed 3D cancer cell culturing
model that enables the study of the cells in an environment that better
resembles the conditions in the human body as compared to the conventional 2D
cell culture models. The model also allows for improved analyses on the
invasive and metastatic behaviour of cancer cells. Through this methodology,
VTT scientists can better predict the drug’s efficacy and investigate the
molecular mechanisms of action of small compounds.
“Over the
past five years, we have invested heavily in R&D and we have become leading
specialists in the field of molecular cancer research. Our work and
technologies have greatly benefited clients and this has now translated into
major new business assignments,” says the project leader Dr. Marko Kallio,
VTT’s Senior Research Scientist. Through these actions, VTT aims to increase
its impact on the international pharmaceutical sector.
This
new contract furthers the collaboration between VTT and Bayer Schering Pharma
AG and acknowledges the respected position VTT has gained within the
pharmaceutical industry.
VTT’s Medical Biotechnology
knowledge centre develops and applies new sophisticated research technologies
for drug development and diagnostic purposes. The focus of the unit is on
identifying primary driver genes and the targets of genetic alterations in
cancer. The unit also works to find small molecule inhibitors that prevent the
growth and metastasis of various types of cancer. In addition, it develops and
utilises versatile recombinant antibody methods and plant biotechnology tools
for the needs of pharmaceutical and food industries. Over 100 people work at
VTT’s Medical Biotechnology knowledge centre on different commercial and
academic projects.
PHOTO: 3-D
cultured prostate cancer cells. (Photo by Ville Härmä, Scientist, VTT)
Additional information
Kirsi-Marja Oksman-Caldentey
Technology Manager
+358 20 722 4459
Marko Kallio
Senior Research Scientist
+358 20 722 7725