Dr. Fiona Leslie, the leading scientist behind the advanced FMT assay, has shared insights on her role in creating this cutting-edge technology.
Dr. Fiona Leslie. Image Credit: Newcells Biotech
Working within a team of experts, Fiona has been involved from the earliest stages of the assay’s development, optimizing conditions and overseeing its initial and subsequent launches.
Her work culminated in the advanced high-throughput, high-sensitivity FMT assay, now integrated as part of the offering that leverages the capabilities of the a state-of-the-art imaging suite.
Fiona drew on her extensive experience with extracellular matrix studies and fluorescence microscopy, which she applied to high-content imaging to facilitate drug development for fibrotic lung disease. “It was exciting,” she noted, “to leverage my skills in a way that could directly contribute to medical advancement in respiratory health.”
One of the most thrilling aspects of this project came from adapting to the powerful new imaging capabilities of the ImageXpress® HTai microscope.
This technology increased the assay’s flexibility and broadened the scope of imaging and quantification capabilities. The ongoing exploration of its full potential promises to push the boundaries of what can be achieved in assay development.
The project, however, presented considerable challenges. Transitioning the established FMT assay to new equipment while maintaining high-quality standards required refining protocols and creating new image-analysis pipelines.
This thorough work was essential to ensure the reliability and robustness of data for customers, enabling them to make informed decisions.
Reflecting on the project, Fiona emphasized the invaluable knowledge gained about the new equipment and the assay model itself. These learnings are paving the way for future innovations, opening doors for expanded use of current models and developing novel assays tailored to meet evolving customer needs.
The advanced FMT assay represents a rapid, high-sensitivity screening solution for anti-fibrotic drug development, providing a reliable platform for respiratory drug screening and research. With this breakthrough technology, scientists now have an enhanced tool to accelerate discoveries in treating fibrotic lung diseases.
About Newcells Biotech
Newcells Biotech develops in vitro cell-based assays for drug and chemical discovery and development.
Using our expertise in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), cellular physiology, and organoid technology, we build models that incorporate the “best biology” for predicting in vivo behavior of new drugs.
Our experts have developed and launched assays to measure transporter function, safety, and efficacy in a range of cell and tissue types, including kidney, retina and lungs.
We have the capability to develop and implement protocols to measure cilia beat frequency and toxicity on small airway epithelial cells model, retinal toxicity and disease modelling on retinal organoids and retina epithelium, as well as drug transport in the kidney, DDI and nephrotoxicity across human and a range of preclinical species.
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