At the CDCO, we offer expertise and capability in physicochemical, metabolism and pharmacokinetic profiling to progress small molecule drug discovery programs.
Initial profiling is conducted using cost effective in silico and high throughput in vitro screening methods to provide rapid data on the “drug-like” properties of a structural series.
Further in vitro absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) and pharmacokinetic (PK) assessment is then used to identify structural liabilities that may impact the in vivo performance of a compound or series.
Physicochemical properties of drug candidates underpin all aspects of drug formulation, delivery and disposition. Understanding these properties can help reduce low bioavailability and unfavourable distribution properties.
Our in vitro testing protocols are designed to identify compound liabilities related to absorption, distribution, metabolism or excretion (ADME). Poor physicochemical properties can lead to limited drug permeability and poor absorption, while extensive hepatic metabolism can lead to low oral bioavailability, a short in vivo half-life, or the production of potentially active or toxic metabolites.
Early assessment of in vivo PK properties provides critical data for the validation of in vitro screens and establishment of in vitro / in vivo correlations. We offer rodent studies to assess pharmacokinetic properties (clearance, volume of distribution, half-life and bioavailability).
Accurate quantitative analysis of small molecule drug candidates in biological samples supports all aspects of ADME lead optimisation at the CDCO. We offer the flexibility to develop specific and rapid methods for the analysis of candidate compounds and their metabolites in complex biological matrices.