Non-animal neuronal reporter platform for circadian and sleep biology
A novel platform utilizing validated clock-gene bioluminescent reporters in human cell lines and neuronal cultures to study circadian period, phase, and amplitude in real time without animal use. It offers detailed mechanistic insights using multi-omics and is adaptable for complex botanical extracts and dietary bioactives.
Overview
The non-animal neuronal reporter platform developed by the University of Oxford offers a cutting-edge solution for studying circadian and sleep biology using human cell lines and neuronal cultures. This platform leverages validated clock-gene bioluminescent reporters, such as Bmal1-luc and Per2-luc, integrated with live-cell luminometry to provide real-time quantification of circadian period, phase, and amplitude. By incorporating multi-omics techniques, the platform extends beyond phenotypic outputs to elucidate mechanisms related to melatonin receptor engagement, clock-gene dynamics, and kinase signaling. This animal-free and well-plate scalable platform is ideal for testing complex botanical extracts and dietary bioactives.
Technical specifications
- Clock-gene reporters: Utilizes Bmal1-luc and Per2-luc in human cell lines
- Live-cell luminometry: Provides real-time circadian measurement
- Multi-omics integration: Includes phosphoproteomics and transcriptomics for mechanistic insights
- Scalability: Compatible with 384-well format assays
- Application versatility: Suitable for botanical extracts and dietary bioactives
- Neuronal translation: Includes assessments of calcium signaling, synaptic activity, and network excitability in SH-SY5Y neurons
Technology readiness level
This platform is currently at Technology Readiness Level 4, indicating that it has undergone validation in a laboratory environment with further steps required for commercial deployment. The future validation plans include primary screening, orthogonal validation, mechanistic profiling, and neuronal translation to ensure comprehensive analysis and application.
About University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is a comprehensive collegiate research university in the UK, pairing wide academic breadth with intensive research and innovation. Industry engages through the university-owned Begbroke Science Park, which co-locates laboratories with high-growth companies, and via proximity to the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus with national facilities such as Diamond Light Source. Clinical translation is enabled by a partnership with Oxford University Hospitals through an NIHR Biomedical Research Centre. Research is supported by UK Research and Innovation councils and the National Institute for Health and Care Research, alongside major charities. Technology transfer and corporate engagement are managed by Oxford University Innovation, which handles IP, licensing, consultancy and spinouts.
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