INNOVATION:  UCLA scientists have developed a system to analyze the movement of labeled proteins in a cell. Using standard techniques and equipment, imaging data of labeled protein movement is acquired by microscopy of cultured cells over time. The invention includes a software program with specifically written algorithms that utilizes imaging data obtained from microscopy images to generate geometric data, parametric equations, and assembly of models. Using this system results in a mathematical modeling of the movement of labeled proteins in the cell, allowing for direct visualization of a pathway in real time. This system eliminates the need to fractionate cells to determine the location of a protein in a cell. Currently this system has been applied to the movement of GFP-b-catenin to develop an intracellular trajectory model.

POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS 

• Add on software for live cell imaging analysis to increase utility of analysis
• Determine the movement of a labeled protein in a cell in real time
• Compare the differences of the movements of labeled proteins in normal versus diseased cells
• Measure the effects of a drug on the movement of a labeled protein in a cell
• Test pharmaceutical agents that manipulate the cell environment
• Data revealing labeled protein location can predict subsequent cellular events

ADVANTAGES

• Analysis uses live cells
• Eliminates need for fractioning of cell
• Generates a detailed map of protein location in live cell in real time
• Can be used with microscopy methods other than confocal

Reference: UCLA Case No. 2005-691

Patent Application: PCT/US2006/032130