Explora BioLabs is a leading provider of vivarium space and vivarium management services. Did you know that Explora also offers preclinical CRO services? Our dedicated scientific team has extensive in vivo pharmacology experience and can provide guidance on models and study designs for a range of preclinical studies. Below are a few examples of Explora’s preclinical research services.
ONCOLOGY DRUG RESEARCH
Our Ph.D.-led scientific team has deep expertise in preclinical oncology drug development that can be leveraged to design your preclinical in vivo efficacy studies. We support our pharmaceutical and biotech clients in evaluating many early phase oncology therapeutics including biologics, small molecules, cell-based therapies, and oncolytic viruses. Explora BioLabs’ staff can provide both murine (mouse) and human cell lines for subcutaneous xenograft models for a wide variety of cancers. These can be tested with monotherapies, immunotherapies, or combination therapies. Renal capsule, mammary fat pad (MFP), spleen, prostate, ovarian, and brain implantation capabilities are also available.
We can work with tumor cell lines within our own cell bank, provided by clients, or from commercial cell banks. Our in-life measurements include tumor volume or non-invasive IVIS imaging. Samples can also be collected for clinical chemistry or hematology evaluation. Various tissue samples for immunohistochemistry can also be collected and outsourced to our trusted providers.
METABOLIC RESEARCH
Many complex factors can contribute to metabolic disease, including genetics, diet, and lifestyle. It’s important to select the appropriate animal model to determine the safety and efficacy of therapeutics intended to treat metabolic conditions.
Explora has experience with a variety of mouse models for diabetes. Diabetes can be activated in genetically normal mice with a drug (streptozotocin) that destroys islet cells in a manner very similar to the autoimmune attack that leads to Type 1 diabetes. Diet-induced obesity can also be implemented to mimic the onset of Type 2 diabetes. Our scientific team is proficient with in vivo assays including resting glucose levels, oral glucose-tolerance test (GTT), insulin-tolerance test (ITT), lipid panels, complete blood counts (CBC), clinical observations, and body weights.
Blood, serum, plasma, or feces for metabolite analysis can be collected from the test subjects as a part of the test protocol. Histopathology and immunostaining can be performed through our trusted providers after the animals have been humanely euthanized at the end of the study.
PHARMACOKINETIC STUDIES
Pharmacokinetic studies are necessary for preclinical validation of a new drug candidate. Understanding how a living animal model absorbs a novel compound, how that compound is distributed in various tissues, and how that compound is metabolized and excreted are all keys to successful dosing regimens that maximize drug efficiency while minimizing undesirable side effects.
Our experience in this area includes well-planned and real-world vetted protocols for carrying out these studies. We can customize protocols based on client’s exact needs. Candidate drugs, either small molecule or more complex biologics, can be administered in single or repeat doses in either mice or rats. Blood and other tissue sampling can be scheduled for analyses by reputable analytical labs.
EXPLORATORY TOXICOLOGY (NON-GLP) STUDIES
The toxicity study is one of the first hurdles every new candidate drug must clear. Our scientists can perform a wide variety of such pharmacological studies. We offer non-GLP study protocols for carrying out maximum tolerated dose studies for both small molecules and biologics. These can be acute toxicology studies with escalating doses, or they can be sub-chronic toxicity studies with repeated dosing.
Study outputs include observational findings and samples taken for laboratory assessment of clinical chemistry parameters and hematology. Immunohistochemical procedures and pathology assessment are also accessible through our trusted third-party solutions. Routes of candidate drug administration include intra-venous, intra-peritoneal, intra-muscular, subcutaneous, and oral.
TECHNICAL SERVICES
Explora’s highly trained scientific team can provide in vivo technical services to help overcome the challenges inherent in resourcing and securing experienced research staff. Our team can assist with routine dosing, tissue collection, health observations, IVIS imaging, and tumor measurements so that your team can focus on meeting your research timelines. This assistance can be customized so that the client maintains as much or little control over the process as required. Our technical expertise can help build bridge your internal capabilities during a time of labor uncertainty and/or approaching scientific deadlines.
Don’t see the service you’re looking for? Read more about Explora BioLabs’ research services or contact us for more information about customized options for your needs.
Explora BioLabs provides a network of AAALAC-accredited vivarium facilities and preclinical research services, both in Western and Eastern United States. Explora’s Vivarium-as-a-Service™ and CRO solutions offer clients the ability to initiate in vivo studies in as little as two weeks with proper husbandry management and crucial regulatory oversight. For more information about how Explora BioLabs can benefit your research studies, contact us today.