What we do for outstanding data quality

for ion channel-screening service

1.  Multiple screening platforms for ion channel research
Cytocentrics is an experienced service provider for ion channel screening. We offer screening on the automated patch clamp platform CytoPatch™ Instrument as well as manual patch clamp service.

Automated patch clamp: screens run on the in-house developed and GLP-approved CytoPatch™ Instruments. Our CytoPatch™ technology accelerates the sample throughput whilst maintaining the high quality recordings of the manual “gold standard” patch clamp technique.

Manual patch clamp: all set-ups are equipped with the Dynaflow System™ for fast compound application schemes or with a peristaltic pump for sticky compounds. This enables “state-of-the-art” measurement for ligand- and voltage-gated ion channels.

2. Handling of test substances
Our instrumentation in combination with the handling of drug candidates avoids errors in the evaluation of drug effects due to the hydrophobic nature of so called “sticky” compounds. To prevent them from adhering to the substrate, we use glass instead of plastic lab ware. Furthermore, each compound concentration will be applied for a duration of at least 10 min. If steady-state in current amplitude is not achieved during 10 min, the application time can be prolonged to 20 minutes. Custom-made application protocols can be implemented on request. Furthermore, with our fast and precisely triggered compound application system it is possible to examine fast ligand-gated ion channels on the CytoPatch™ Instrument.

3. Quality assured cells
Not only the instrumentation is essential for reliable patch clamp studies: To ensure high and consistent data quality, well-characterized and optimized cell lines are indispensable as well. For this reason, Cytocentrics performs most studies with validated and quality-assured Instant Cells. Every batch of these in-house-developed and stably transfected cell lines is validated in terms of seal rate, current amplitude, rundown and stability in the whole cell mode.

4. Good Laboratory Practise (GLP)
The Cytocentrics AG is accredited to perform patch clamp studies under GLP on the CytoPatch™ Instrument as well as on the conventional patch clamp setup. On April 3, 2008, the Ministry for Health and Social Affairs of the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern awarded Cytocentrics AG the category 9 GLP certificate (Good Laboratory Practice).
GLP is a quality assurance system which governs the planning, implementation and monitoring of non-clinical safety tests. The implementation of studies, as well as the documentation and archiving of the resulting data are strictly regulated. The quality system also has strict requirements concerning employee training and technical equipment. Authorities carry out regular audits to verify the implementation of the GLP quality standard.