Gentronix Expands Tox Screening Services

Gentronix has expanded its service testing portfolio with the launch of Apoptosis Suite, a set of in vitro assays to detect apoptosis induction. The suite can be utilized to provide mechanistic information regarding the cytotoxicity profile within a novel chemical series. Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is used by the body to remove unwanted, damaged or senescent cells from tissues.
 
New compounds are subject to a wide range of cytotoxicity hazard assessments. One such measure is the induction of apoptosis pathways, which can provide important mechanistic information with regards to effect on cellular fate. Gentronix’ Apoptosis Suite is comprised of an Annexin-V Affinity Assay, a Caspase 3/7 Assay and general cytotoxicity measures covering cellular proliferation and viability, to provide a comprehensive assessment of the induction of apoptosis.
 
The combination of these assays, alongside general cellular toxicity measures provides strong evidence for the presence or absence of an apoptotic mechanism, according to a Gentronix statement.
 
Dr. Steve Beasley, commercial director at Gentronix, commented, “The expansion of our service testing to include apoptosis enables toxicologists to better assess the cytotoxicity profile of candidate compounds, enabling modification of these molecules to remove undesirable characteristics whilst keeping the desired active properties. This latest launch highlights our commitment to expanding our range of assays and services in line with our customers’ needs.”