Discovery Services
With a core focus in oncology, Horizon Discovery Services (HDS) provides in-vitro and in-vivo assay development and drug screening services. Deploying extensive expertise, proprietary content and a range of cell biology techniques and expertise, we can measure biological processes such as cell growth, signal transduction, apoptosis, angiogenesis, metastesis and other systems important in interrogating putative drug candidates.
HDS clients are able to access Horizon Discovery’s 250+ patient-relevant X-MAN human isogenic cancer cell models as well as 70 complimentary non-isogenic cancer cell lines. This enables clients to exploit HDS’s expertise in handling the lines and to gain data quickly in order to study how specific cancer genes and mutations affect sensitivity to therapeutic compounds. Services provided by HDS include a suite of bespoke X-MAN Pathways assay, such as 2D and 3D phenotypic assays, tumor microenvironment studies including limited oxygen, growth factors and nutrient supplies, and responsive-patient prediction.
In addition, HDS clients can access a comprehenisive range of preclinical services via its exclusive US discovery services partner TGen Drug Development (TD2). Through TD2 we can offer both high-throughput in-vitro and in-vivo X-MAN Pathways studies. The ability to design clinically relevant animal models that are more precise analogs of the human condition is the primary value proposition of the HDS/TD2 alliance. This means we have capability to design in vitro and in vivo testing strategies that evaluate a client's compound in unique ways that predict optimal development pathways for a drug (for example determining how to best use an agent in combination with other experimental or FDA-approved treatments)
We have a number of established assays that have been developed and validated using control inhibitors. However, many projects will have unique requirements such as specific cell lines or growth conditions that depend on the target under investigation. In these cases our services can be tailored to meet our client's individual needs. Examples of this include:
Novel assay design and development
Assay optimization to improve sensitivity, reproducibility & robustness
Transfer of proprietary in-house assays to HDS for validation or use
Formatting assays into HTS mode or a relevant in-vivo model at TD2
In addition to our technical capabilities, transparent and direct communication with our scientific team will help to ensure your goals are met.
If you wish to discuss any of the above areas in more detail, please do not hesitate to contact us and speak to one of our scientists regarding your particular requirements.
