Newcells Biotech launches high-content, high-throughput imaging suite to advance preclinical drug development programs

Newcells Biotech (“Newcells”), a leading drug discovery partner specializing in the development of in vitro models and customized testing services to predict in the flesh human outcomes, today announced the launch of its imaging suite and advanced lung fibroblast to myofibroblast transition (FMT) assay. The state-of-the-art imaging suite, which includes high-volume, high-throughput equipment, expands the company’s service offerings to provide more in-depth and robust in vitro data. Newcells has developed a suite of assays to harness these capabilities; enabling researchers to accelerate programs with greater confidence in drug effects and localization in the flesh.

Newcells offers a suite of physiologically relevant and functionally validated iPSC and primary cell models to support drug developers in de-risking preclinical decision-making and improving clinical translation. The new suite includes state-of-the-art imaging capabilities for Newcells’ in vitro retina, kidney and lung models, now with the addition of the advanced lung FMT test. It features imaging systems to maximize data generation and analysis in the respective application areas; an ImageXpress^® Confocal HT.ai High-Content Imaging System for high-content imaging and highly multiplexed assays, a ZEISS Axio Observer System with Apotome 3 for imaging multiple sample formats, and an ImageXpress Pico Automated Cell Imaging System for a wide range of assays.

The advanced high-throughput high-sensitivity lung FMT assay facilitates customizable and rapid assessment of the efficacy of anti-fibrotic drug candidates. Building on the success of Newcells’ existing FMT assay, the advanced version provides higher resolution data, with simultaneous assessment of four separate data outputs for more accurate selection and predictability of drug effects on lung fibrosis. By using advanced imaging and quantification technology, the assay improves understanding of the in vitro effects and can be used to better inform the progress of development programmes.

The launch of our new imaging suite and enhanced screening assay for fibrotic diseases is an important step in our strategy to deliver innovative, industry-leading in vitro models that advance the discovery and safe development of new medicines. We are committed to continuous innovation of our solutions to stay ahead of the curve and best support our customers’ research needs.”

Dr. Mike Nichols, CEO and Co-Founder, Newcells Biotech

He continued: “As the capabilities of analytical technologies in imaging and omics grow, we see opportunities to deliver even greater value to our customers by applying these techniques to provide mechanistic data on how innovative new therapies will impact human tissues and organs. This recent investment in imaging gives customers the ability to capture valuable information to support discovery and translation into clinical trials”