Ex Vivo Models Services for CNS Drug Discovery
At Creative Biolabs, we are at the forefront of overcoming these hurdles. We provide a comprehensive suite of advanced ex vivo model services, leveraging cutting-edge human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology to build a powerful, human-relevant platform for CNS drug discovery. By recapitulating the intricate cellular diversity, 3D architecture, and functional complexity of the human nervous system, our models provide a crucial bridge between simplistic assays and complex in vivo studies. Partner with us to de-risk your pipeline, accelerate timelines, and unlock a new dimension of predictability for your CNS research and development programs.
Get a QuoteOur Integrated Ex Vivo Platform: The Solution to Modern CNS Challenges
Our philosophy is to provide a holistic modeling platform that directly addresses the questions your research aims to answer. We have integrated multiple state-of-the-art technologies into a seamless workflow, enabling the creation of models with varying degrees of complexity, from highly pure neural cell populations to intricate "disease-in-a-dish" systems.
High-Purity Neural Cell Populations
Expertly differentiated and rigorously characterized human neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia.
Advanced 3D Neural Architectures
Self-assemblingbrain spheroids and regionally-patterned brain organoids
Precision "Disease-in-a-Dish" Models
Leveraging patient-derived iPSCs and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing for disorders like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS.
Functional Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) Models
A robust, iPSC-derived in vitro system that accurately predicts compound penetration.
Addressing the Evolving Landscape of CNS Research
The field of neuroscience is advancing at an unprecedented pace, presenting both new opportunities and significant challenges. Traditional research paradigms are shifting, and our ex vivo platform is specifically designed to address these modern imperatives.
The Challenge of Translatability
Rodent models, while valuable, often fail to capture key aspects of human-specific neurobiology and disease pathology. The genetic and cellular differences are simply too great. Our human-first approach directly tackles this issue. By using human iPSCs, we ensure that every discovery, every compound screen, and every safety assessment is conducted in a system that is fundamentally relevant to human patients.
The Rise of Neuroinflammation
There is a growing consensus that neuroinflammation, driven by glial cells like microglia and astrocytes, is not just a consequence but a key driver of neurodegenerative diseases. We are pioneering immuno-competent models. By integrating functional microglia and reactive astrocytes into our 2D and 3D cultures, we provide a unique platform to investigate the inflammatory axis of CNS disorders.
The Era of Personalized & Genetic Medicine
The success of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) has identified numerous genetic risk factors for CNS disorders. Our platform is built for precision. Using patient-derived iPSCs, we can create models that capture an individual's unique genetic background. Coupled with CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, we can introduce or correct specific mutations, creating isogenic controls that allow for the unambiguous dissection of gene function.
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Discover how our human-first models provide the translatable data you need.
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Core Advantages of Our Human-Relevant Models
By embracing a human-first approach, our ex vivo services offer unparalleled advantages for your drug discovery programs.
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Unmatched Human Translatability
Overcome species-specific differences that often lead to clinical trial failure.
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Physiological and Pathological Relevance
Replicate key aspects of human neurophysiology and disease.
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Deep Mechanistic Insight
Gain a unique window into the cellular and molecular mechanisms of CNS disorders.
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Enhanced Predictive Power
Acquire early, reliable data on efficacy, neurotoxicity, and brain permeability.
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Flexibility and Customization
Collaborate with us to design the optimal model system and experimental paradigm.
A Broad Spectrum of Applications
Our versatile ex vivo platform can be deployed at multiple stages of the drug discovery pipeline. We empower our clients to answer critical research questions by leveraging models that reflect the latest scientific understanding.
Target Identification and Validation
The latest single-cell omics studies have revealed that many CNS disease risk genes are expressed in a highly cell-type-specific manner. A target's relevance might be confined to microglia, or even a specific subset of excitatory
neurons. Validating these targets requires human models with the correct cellular complexity.
How we help: We utilize our patient-derived iPSC models and isogenic controls
to confirm a target's role in a human genetic context. By applying single-cell RNA-seq to our brain organoid models after target perturbation (e.g., via CRISPR or ASO), we can map the downstream network effects across all CNS
cell types, validating the target's mechanism and uncovering potential off-target liabilities in a single, powerful experiment.
Compound Screening and Phenotypic Profiling
Modern drug discovery is moving beyond simple binding assays towards high-content phenotypic screening. The goal is to find molecules that reverse a complex disease phenotype, not just inhibit a single enzyme.
How we help: Our 3D neural spheroids are optimized for automated, high-content imaging, enabling scalable screening for complex cellular phenotypes. We can screen thousands of compounds and quantify their effects on neurite outgrowth, mitochondrial
health, protein aggregation, or synaptic density, providing far richer, more physiologically relevant data than traditional assays.
Safety and Neurotoxicity Assessment
Early and accurate neurotoxicity assessment is critical for de-risking drug candidates. Research now emphasizes the need to detect subtle, chronic toxicity that may be missed in short-term animal studies, such as adverse effects
on glial function or synaptic plasticity, which can lead to long-term cognitive side effects.
How we help: We offer long-term culture of human neuron-glia co-cultures. By
assessing the chronic, low-dose exposure of a compound, we can measure subtle changes in neuronal firing patterns, astrocyte reactivity (GFAP expression), or microglial activation state. This proactive safety profiling helps
flag problematic candidates early, saving significant time and resources.
Biomarker Discovery and Validation
A major goal in CNS research is the discovery of fluid-based biomarkers (e.g., in CSF or blood) that dynamically reflect pathological changes in the brain. Recent proteomics studies on patient samples are uncovering candidate biomarkers,
but validating their origin and responsiveness to treatment is a challenge.
How we help: The conditioned media from our "disease-in-a-dish" models is a clean source for biomarker
discovery. For example, if our ALS motor neuron culture secretes elevated levels of neurofilament light chain (NfL) upon degeneration, and your therapeutic reduces both the degeneration and NfL secretion, it provides direct
evidence linking the biomarker to target engagement and efficacy.
Personalized Medicine Strategies
Clinical trial data often reveals that a drug is highly effective, but only in a subset of patients. Understanding this variability, which is often rooted in the patient's genetic background, is the cornerstone of personalized
medicine.
How we help: We can generate iPSC lines from a cohort of clinical trial participants (both responders and non-responders). By creating parallel disease models, we can perform
a "trial-in-a-dish," treating the models with your compound and using deep phenotypic or transcriptomic analysis to identify the cellular signatures that predict a positive response. This powerful approach can inform patient
stratification for future trials and aid in the development of companion diagnostics.
Our Collaborative Service Workflow
We believe in a transparent, collaborative, and milestone-driven approach to ensure your project's success. Our workflow is designed as a partnership, providing you with expert support at every stage.
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Phase 1: Consultation and Strategic Design
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Phase 2: Model Generation and Quality Control
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Phase 3: Experimentation and Data Acquisition
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Phase 4: Data Analysis and Comprehensive Reporting
Partner with the Experts in CNS Modeling
Our platform integrates state-of-the-art stem cell biology, bioengineering, and advanced analytical methods. A wave of landmark studies in world-leading journals like Nature, Cell Stem Cell, and Nature Neuroscience has firmly established this technology as the new gold standard for CNS research.
Choosing Creative Biolabs means partnering with a team of dedicated scientists committed to excellence. We are not just a service provider; we are your strategic partner in navigating the complexities of CNS drug discovery.
Get a Quote and De-risk Your CNS Pipeline
Frequently Asked Questions
Reference
- Hartmann, Sophia-Marie, et al. “Microglia-Neuron Interactions in Schizophrenia.” Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, vol. 18, Mar. 2024, p. 1345349. DOI.org, https://doi.org/10.3389/fncel.2024.1345349.
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