Pharmacokinetics Services
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Pharmacokinetics Services

Pharmacokinetics (PK), or drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics (DMPK), is the branch of pharmacology that quantifies the time course of a drug's presence in the body, including the processes of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. As a research services provider, Protheragen provides customized ophthalmic pharmacokinetics services to pharmaceutical companies.

Introduction to Pharmacokinetics

Ophthalmic disease pharmacokinetics, also known as ocular pharmacokinetics or ophthalmic PK, refers to the comprehensive study of how drugs and other therapeutic agents behave within the complex structures of the eye. This specialized field is crucial for understanding the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination (ADME) of compounds intended for the therapeutics of various ocular disorders. In the context of ophthalmology, ophthalmic pharmacokinetics provides invaluable insights into how a drug candidate may perform once administered to the eye, guiding critical decisions throughout the drug development lifecycle.

The route by which drugs are discharged from the vitreous cavity. Fig.1 Elimination routes of drugs from the vitreal cavity. (Del Amo E. M., et al., 2017)

Pharmacokinetics in Ophthalmic Diseases

The current status of ophthalmic pharmacokinetics analysis is marked by advancements in drug delivery systems and analytical techniques. Researchers are developing novel formulations, such as nanoparticles and sustained-release implants, to enhance drug penetration and retention in ocular tissues. Additionally, the use of sensitive bioanalytical methods, including liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), has improved the quantification of drugs in ocular tissues and fluids.

Our Services

At Protheragen, we have established a dedicated team of experts in the field of ophthalmic disease pharmacokinetics, offering a comprehensive suite of services to support the development of innovative ocular therapies.

In Vitro ADME Evaluations

Our in vitro capabilities encompass a broad range of ADME assessments, including studies on physicochemical properties, permeability, transporter interactions, protein binding, and metabolic stability. These early-stage evaluations provide critical insights into a drug candidate's potential for ocular penetration and distribution, helping to guide formulation development and candidate selection.

In Vivo Pharmacokinetic Studies

We leverage our expertise in animal models to conduct robust in vivo pharmacokinetic studies, measuring drug concentrations in various ocular tissues following different routes of administration. Our skilled scientists can perform precise microdissection and sampling of individual eye structures, such as the cornea, aqueous humor, vitreous, retina, and choroid, to map the detailed distribution profile of your compound.

Routes for Ocular Drug Delivery

Effective ocular drug delivery is contingent upon the selection of appropriate administration routes. Protheragen's services cover:

Topical Administration

Topical delivery, including eye drops and ointments, is the most common method for anterior segment diseases. We optimize formulations to enhance corneal penetration and minimize systemic absorption.

Intravitreal Injections

For posterior segment diseases, intravitreal injections provide direct access to the vitreous, ensuring high drug concentrations at the target site. We study the pharmacokinetics of such injections to predict drug distribution and elimination.

Periocular and Transscleral

We also explore periocular and transscleral routes, which offer alternative pathways for drug delivery to the posterior segment by bypassing the BRB.

We design studies tailored to client's specific needs, whether it's early-stage drug discovery or late-stage formulation optimization. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us for more details and quotation information of related services.

Reference

  • Del Amo, Eva M., et al. "Pharmacokinetic aspects of retinal drug delivery." Progress in retinal and eye research 57 (2017): 134-185.