3T3 Neutral Red Uptake in vitro Photoirritation Test Now Available for Screening Multiple Test Articles
December 21, 2009 – Building on our extensive experience in the field of photobiology, Charles River is now pleased to offer the 3T3 Neutral Red Uptake (NRU) in vitro photoirritation test for the screening of multiple test articles. While we have offered the 3T3 NRU photoirritancy assay for more than five years, most of those studies were conducted on a single test article. Now, we have expanded our capabilities to assess multiple test articles, reducing resource allocation, time and overall costs.
This screening method allows for the ranking of related test articles with respect to phototoxic potential, a key piece of information in selecting drug candidates for future development. In addition, outsourcing this assay to Charles River provides a more seamless transition for the completion of further studies, in particular in vivo studies, that may be required based on the outcome of this assay. At Charles River, the 3T3 NRU photoirritation test can be run as a GLP-compliant study or as a screening tool.
Photoirritation is a light-induced, nonimmunologic response to a photoreactive chemical. Photoirritation has often been referred to as phototoxicity, and resembles skin primary irritation in that only a single administration of the test chemical and a single light exposure can be sufficient to elicit a reaction.
The occurrence of photoirritation in man has been well documented. Numerous chemicals have been demonstrated to elicit photoirritation via several routes of administration and the list grows longer every year. Several animal models and in vitro systems have been developed to study the mechanisms of and to test for photoirritation.
Advantages of the 3T3 NRU phototoxicity test include: regulatory approval for in vitro assessment of phototoxic potential; relatively simple technical procedures; excellent reproducibility of results; and cost efficiency.
For more information about the 3T3 Neutral Red Uptake in vitro photoirritation test, click here or contact us at askcharlesriver@crl.com or 1.877.CRIVER.1 (1.877.274.8371).
Related Information: