Core Competences

1. Basic cellular characteristics in short- and long-term tests

  • Cell proliferation
  • Cell migration
  • Energy metabolism
  • Regeneration & wound healing

2. Dartsch Digestive Tract Model (DDTM; simulation of GI tract)

  • Release, absorption and bioavailability of active ingredients
  • Beneficial effects and unwanted side effects in the three main compartments of the human gastrointestinal tract (mouth, stomach and intestine)
  • Determination of therapeutic window
  • Primary metabolic products after liver passage (first pass effect)
  • Investigations on gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

3. Free exogen and endogenously generated reactive oxygen species (ROS)

  • Inactivation (antioxidative effect) or induction of radicals by pharmaceuticals or surfaces
  • Inhibition or stimulation of metabolism of inflammation-    mediating cells such as neutrophils
  • Inactivation (anti-inflammatory effect) or induction of oxygen radical generation in the course of an oxidative burst by functional neutrophils

4. Cytotoxicity and biocompatibility screening of pure substances and complex mixtures and matrices

5. Time-lapse videography of cell cultures

  • Dynamic visualisation of toxic effects or morphological alterations
  • Marketing tool for elucidation of cellular effects to customers

6. Slow-motion videography for examination of ciliary beat frequency

  • Use of freshly isolated human nasal epithelial cells
  • Toxicity of hazardous substances to the upper respiratory tract
  • Screening of beneficial effects of inhalatives, nose drops etc.