author also states that Athersys has reproduced the human genomes billions of times Not quite sure that's an accurate description of what they're about, but they are certainly attempting an end run around the genomics companies. From their website -
"...The creation of a RAGE library begins with the random insertion of specially designed DNA sequences, which we call RAGE vectors, into the genome. We engineer our RAGE vectors to include an "on" switch--designed to turn on the expression of a gene--and, at our option, one or more "tags" or genetic identification sequences that will later facilitate the rapid isolation of a gene of interest. We have optimized this process such that, on average, only one gene is activated in any given cell. By repeating this process with a large number of cells, a library is created in which collectively virtually every gene in the genome can be activated and expressed. Using high-throughput screening techniques, we can identify and isolate cells expressing a specific protein of interest or exhibiting a desired biological characteristic in a rapid and cost-effective manner.
Key advantages of the RAGE technology over conventional gene discovery and protein expression technologies include the following:
Rapid Creation of Unbiased Comprehensive Protein Expression Libraries: RAGE libraries express tissue specific and rarely expressed genes as well as abundantly expressed genes at comparable frequencies. As a result, significant biases toward genes that are ordinarily expressed at high levels or in many tissues can be minimized or avoided. RAGE libraries ensure significant coverage of the entire genome, including rarely expressed genes encoding key biological regulators, which are believed to be valuable drug targets or therapeutic candidates.
Protein Expression without Cloning of Genes or Use of Gene Sequence InformationRAGE can be used to activate genes in a manner that does not require the isolation and cloning of individual genes or the use of gene sequence information. Therefore, we believe RAGE avoids intellectual property constraints on the use of cloned and isolated gene sequences for certain applications in drug development and protein production.
Rapid and Direct Association of Protein Function with Gene StructureRAGE libraries can be used to search for cells that exhibit specific biological properties. When a cell with a desired feature is detected, we can rapidly and directly associate this specific characteristic with the RAGE activated gene by way of the RAGE vector "tag".
Multiple Applications for RAGE Libraries: The RAGE technology is compatible with a variety of different biological model systems, or assays, including biochemical, cellular or even animal assays. In addition, RAGE libraries may be created in a variety of cell types, including human or animal cells.
Scalable Levels of Gene Expression RAGE can be used to generate cell lines that express activated genes at high levels. These cell lines can be used to produce large quantities of proteins for biochemical studies, in cell-based assays for screening therapeutic compounds or for functional genomics studies. In addition, genes may be permanently or temporarily expressed, depending on the goals of the research project...." |
