Covance launches B-Clear hepatocyte system

Covance has announced the launch of the B-Clear hepatocyte system for predicting hepatic uptake and accumulation.

The firm suggests that it is the only in vitro method for assessing hepatobiliary disposition.

Initially to provide human and rat variations of the hepatocytes, further product lines including non-human primates, canine and mouse treatments are scheduled for release in late 2007, Covance advises.

Dr Richard Ridgewell, associate director of drug metabolism services for Covance, explains that the service offers "the ability to generate physiologically-relevant data that can enable decision making in pivotal areas related to hepatic transport and drug-induced hepatic injury".

"It complements our existing strengths in metabolism and pharmacokinetic services," he adds.

The company predicts that the system could be useful during the development stage of new therapeutics as an indicator of species-specific medication dosing and candidate selection.

Covance terms the ability to determine hepatic drug transport a "critical factor" in the development of new drugs.