The use of human tissue in drug discovery

Abstract

Experiments conducted on human tissue samples are a key component of modern drug discovery programs and complement the use of animal tissue based assays in this process. Such studies can (i) enhance our understanding of disease pathophysiology, (ii) increase (or decrease) confidence that modulating the function of particular molecular targets will have therapeutic benefit (iii) allow comparison of the activities of different agents on particular mechanisms/processes and (iv) provide information on the potential safety risks associated with targets. All of this information is critical in identifying the targets that are most likely to deliver efficacious and safe medicines to address unmet clinical needs. With the introduction of new technologies, human tissue samples are also increasingly being incorporated into drug project screening cascades, including their use in high throughput assays. Improved access to human tissue would undoubtedly further extend the utility of this valuable resource in the drug discovery process.