Response to Ophthalmic Market Boom Gives Rise to New Technique
June 14, 2011 - Since its inception, Charles River Pathology Associates has been developing a core team of experienced histology technicians to conduct specialized eye studies. Over the years, we have launched many programs to improve the efficiency and quality of eye section production.
One such program gave rise to a new technique: the use of tumor marker dye at tissue trimming. Shown to increase the visibility of the optic nerve within the block, this technique allows small rodent eyes to be embedded intact, thereby reducing artifact. At the same time, the use of tumor marker dye results in a significant reduction in the number of recuts for the optic nerve - without a loss of productivity.
In all, this technique reduces the time required to obtain a high-quality sagittal section in rodent eyes, thereby increasing both efficiency and quality.
Ophthalmic Market Report
This all came about in response to a report issued in 2007, titled “Global Ophthalmic Market Analysis & Forecasts to 2012.” This report stated that from 2007 to 2012 the global ophthalmic pharmaceutical market would experience a compound annual growth rate of 11.11%. Seeking a strong position for this growing market, Charles River Pathology Associates began looking for pathologists with particular expertise in ocular pathology.
With additions to the staff, and various program initiations, the contribution of studies having an ocular delivery route or involving intraocular devices grew considerably.
Charles River Pathology Associates’ Experience and Capabilities
With a dedicated plastics lab and standard paraffin lab, Charles River Pathology Associates can produce either ground or thin sections of devices in situ. We also have a specialized immunopathology laboratory capable of developing immunohistochemical staining methods using both client-provided and commercial antibodies and/or antibody-based products as required. Other capabilities include tissue cross-reactivity (TCR) studies, biodistribution studies and biomarker work - all of which can be GLP or non-GLP, depending on the client's needs.
In just the past two years, this group has processed and read over 80 ocular studies, including large animal studies involving medical devices (e.g., artificial retina, glaucoma shunts), intravitreal therapies to target macular degeneration as well as topical treatments for dry eye. Others include ocular phototoxicity studies in rats and several large-scale rodent studies looking at the use of stem cell therapies in the eye.
For more information about the use of tumor marker dye at tissue trimming, or the services offered by Charles River Pathology Associates, please contact us at askcharlesriver@crl.com.
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