Improving the long-term storage of a mammalian biosensor cell line via genetic engineering.

The unique properties of mammalian cells make them valuable for a variety of applications in medicine, industry, and diagnostics. However, the utility of such cells is restricted due to the difficulty in storing them non-frozen for an extended time and still maintaining their stability and responsiveness. In order to extend the active life span of a mammalian biosensor cell line at room and refrigerated temperatures, we have over expressed genes that are reported to provide protection from apoptosis, stress, or oxidation.

Synthesis and biological evaluation of imidazole-based small molecule antagonists of the melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4-R).

A novel series of imidazole-based small molecule antagonists of the melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4-R) is reported. Members of this series have been identified, which exhibit sub-micromolar binding affinity for the MC4-R, functional potency <100nM, and good oral exposure in rat. Antagonists of the MC4-R are potentially useful in the therapeutic treatment of involuntary weight loss due to advanced age or disease (e.