The Implications of the Genome
Carl March PhD Senior Vice President of Information Technology and Biochemical Sciences at Immunex Corporation took time out from managing over 160 biotech scientists to explain to us the implications of the biotechnology revolution and recombinant DNA technology. By explaining the significance of genomic libraries and the amazing interchange that goes on using the Celera and Government sponsored Genbanks Dr March was able to give us a preview of the rapid and coordinated approach that is taking place in modern immunology. He discussed the use of predictive algorithms know as "threading" to predict protein sequences and the use of arrays to compare gene activation and expressions in various disease states. For example, arrays can be used to compare two populations of cells for expressions of genes activated by IL-1B, TNF alpha or TGF B.
Once an important gene is recognized, the activity in vivo must be confirmed. Dr March went through the steps that need to be taken to confirm that activity and how transgenic of gene "knock-out" mice are developed and utilized in this process. Because of the importance of TNF for Rheumatology he also discussed the TNF superfamily and the implications of various members within that family. Special emphasis on TACE and TRAIL and their implications for further research was discussed. As shown by the accompanying graph from Pharma 2000 there are a number of genomic related products in development.