Our platforms

• Advanced Cell Culture | From Primary Neurons to Human iPSCs

Our facilities include dedicated spaces for the culture of primary neurons and human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), enabling the development of highly relevant cellular models for neurological and neurodegenerative research. These models are essential for studying synaptic function, disease mechanisms, and drug responses in a human-relevant context.

All cell culture procedures are conducted under strict sterile conditions using biosafety cabinets (BSC), ensuring optimal cell viability and contamination control. This infrastructure supports the generation of complex, reproducible models that are fully integrated into our screening and imaging workflows.

• High-Content Screening

We use the Operetta CLS high-content screening system (Revvity) to perform automated, multiparametric analysis of cellular responses. This platform combines high-resolution fluorescence imaging with AI-powered image analysis, enabling precise quantification of morphological and functional changes in complex cell models. It is ideally suited for neurotoxicity, inflammation, and compound screening studies, offering both throughput and depth of analysis.

• Brain-on-Chip | A neuro-inspired innovation from our research

Developed from our own internal research, our Brain-on-Chip platform offers a cutting-edge approach to modeling human neuronal networks in vitro. Based on microfluidic technology and engineered in collaboration with NETRI, this system recreates functional neural circuits under controlled conditions, allowing for the study of synaptic connectivity, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration in a highly physiological environment. This proprietary model enhances the predictive power of our preclinical studies and supports the development of targeted therapies for complex neurological disorders.

• Hemostasis Assays | ROTEM & Clot Lysis on Human Blood

We offer ROTEM (rotational thromboelastometry) and clot lysis assays performed on human blood samples. These tests provide real-time insights into coagulation dynamics and fibrinolytic activity, making them highly valuable for evaluating the thrombotic or bleeding risk of drug candidates. This approach allows us to assess systemic effects in a human-relevant context.

Imaging | Multimodal Insight: CNS, Heart, Skin

• MRI & PET | Inside the living brain

• Clinical-Grade Skin Imaging with the C-Cube dermoscope

The C-Cube dermoscope (Pixience) is a high-resolution imaging system designed to capture detailed visual data of the skin surface in preclinical models. This clinically aligned technology enables precise, reproducible documentation of skin texture, pigmentation, and lesion evolution over time. Its use enhances the translational value of dermatology studies by providing visual endpoints that mirror clinical dermatological assessments. Integrated into our workflow, the C-Cube supports both qualitative and quantitative evaluation of treatment effects in models of inflammation, barrier dysfunction, and irritation.

State-of-the-art surgical suites | Precision & control

Our surgical suites are designed to support a wide range of preclinical procedures with the highest standards of precision, safety, and reproducibility. Each room is equipped with gas anesthesia systems, heating platforms, and physiological monitoring tools to ensure optimal animal care during surgery. Binocular magnifying loupes are available to assist with delicate procedures, enhancing surgical accuracy and operator comfort.

We also perform stereotaxic surgery, enabling precise targeting of specific brain regions for drug delivery, lesion models, or implant placement. Post-operative care is supported by a thermostatically controlled recovery area, ensuring safe and smooth recovery conditions for the animals.

Dedicated setups are in place for neurosurgical, neurovascular, cardiovascular, and dermatological interventions, allowing seamless integration with our imaging and behavioral platforms. This controlled environment ensures consistent surgical conditions and high-quality outcomes across all study types.

Behavioural Assessments | From Neuroscience to Dermatology

• Full equiped behavioural platform

With a long-standing focus on neuroscience, we offer a full suite of validated behavioral tests to assess locomotor, cognitive, and mood-related functions. Using Anymaze and Noldus video tracking systems, we conduct precise behavioral analyses across a range of models. Memory is assessed through the Morris water maze and novel object recognition tests. Sensorimotor performance is evaluated using tools such as the rotarod, ladder, grip strength, and cylinder tests. To explore mood-related disorders, we implement the elevated plus maze and sucrose preference test, providing valuable insights into anxiety and anhedonia-like behaviors.

• Behaviour is more than just devices, it’s expertise!

Behavioural evaluation is not just about equipment — it’s about expertise. At the heart of our in vivo studies lies a deep understanding of how to translate subtle functional changes into meaningful, reproducible data. Across all our therapeutic areas, we implement tailored scoring systems that require scientific know-how and hands-on experience to interpret accurately.

For example, in neurology and neurovascular models, we use adapted neuroscores to assess deficits and nuanced behavioural changes. In dermatology, we apply clinical-like scoring systems to evaluate discomfort, pruritus, and other behaviourally expressed symptoms — endpoints that are often overlooked by conventional readouts.

This cross-disciplinary behavioural expertise allows us to capture patient-relevant outcomes with high sensitivity and consistency, making our studies not only more translational, but also uniquely robust and reproducible.

• Histology & Immunofluorescence

Our internal laboratory is fully equipped for high-quality cryosectioning and immunohistofluorescence analysis. We specialize in the preparation of frozen tissue sections, ensuring optimal preservation of antigenicity for precise molecular labeling. Our protocols support a wide range of immunostaining techniques, enabling the detection and localization of specific cellular markers across various tissues. This in-house capability ensures rapid turnaround, full control over sample integrity, and seamless integration with our in vivo studies.

• Bioassays | High-Sensitivity Quantification
  

Our bioanalytical platform is equipped to meet a wide range of biochemical and molecular needs. We offer standard and custom ELISA assays, automated via the ELLA system (Bio-Techne) for rapid, multiplexed quantification. Additional capabilities include Western blotting with europium labeling for enhanced sensitivity.