Using genomic tools to improve the production of biologics recombinant dna technology transforms mammalian cells into factories for protein-based therapeutics. New techniques provide chemical engineers with a better understanding of the process as well as the cells themselves.

Biologics are the protein molecules that are produced through the genetic engineering and are different from conventional drugs in their chemical composition and structure. The introduction of genomic tools, especially DNA microarrays, to bioprocess research has enabled the researchers to better understand the process. The tool is used to survey the dynamics of gene expression in cells with varying productivity as well to examine process conditions that enhance productivity in cells. The microarray is used to characterize Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells of different lineages and to group cells from different lineage even after exposure to a wide range of treatments. The tool creates a detailed portrait of the transcriptome that can reveal subtle process variations in great details. Another potential application of DNA microarray analysis includes profiling the expression fingerprint for process scale-up and evaluates variability.