What is Chemical Genomics?
Chemical genomics is the study of how small molecules can rapidly and reversibly affect biological processes. [1] This genetic technique involves the application of small molecules (both naturally- and artificially-derived) to organisms, tissues, and cells. [1] The field of chemical genomics has it roots in drug-discovery experiments, and is now also used for genomic screening. [2]
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A comparison between the standard forward/reverse genetics approaches and the chemical genomics approaches
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How is Chemical Genomics Applied?
The traditional purpose of chemical genomics research has been drug discovery. [1] Drug discovery experiments involve the application of a large number of small molecules to a disease model. These molecules are then assessed for their ability to restore healthy phenotypes in the model. [1] Chemical genomics now also has applications in genomic screening. Screens can be employed to determine gene and protein functions, biological mechanisms, and potentially discover novel therapies. [2]
Conclusion
There is not a large body of literature available concerning chemical studies involving GLI3, nor is there any information on small molecules that interact with GLI3. This gap in knowledge is a potential future direction to take research in embryonic digit development. A series of chemical screens could be conducted to find small molecules that interact with GLI3, which could reveal insight into GLI3's function in the determination of digit number and placement, or offer novel therapies to prevent abnormal digit development in spite of GLI3 mutations.
References
- Florian, S., Hümmer, S., Catarinella, M., & Mayer, T. U. (2007). Chemical genetics: reshaping biology through chemistry. HFSP journal, 1(2), 104–114. doi:10.2976/1.2752600
- Zheng, X.S. & Chang, T.F. (2002, April). Chemical Genomics: A Systematic Approach in Biological Research and Drug. Current Issues Molecular Biology 4:33-43.
Images
Header: https://www.mnn.com/green-tech/research-innovations/stories/liquid-biopsy-blood-test-find-cancer-before-diagnosed
Image 1: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022202X15334576
Image 1: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022202X15334576