In vivo pharmacology

At Minerva Imaging we focus on the use of advanced in vivo pharmacology models and molecular imaging for translational research and drug development. We are specialized in oncology and cardiovascular diseases and provide services in a wide range of preclinical drug discovery programs. Over the years we established a long list of advanced and clinically translational disease models in a variety of small and large animal species. Our in vivo pharmacology scientists are highly experienced in performing efficacy studies, safety studies, PK programs, and biodistribution studies. More detailed information about our in vivo pharmacology models and applied methodologies is listed below.

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Large animals

In our large animal facility we house Göttingen Minipigs, Domestic pigs, Beagle dogs, Rabbits and Guinea pigs. As an example, the Göttingen Minipig is an exceptionally well characterized model. Their small size makes them an ideal option in pharmacological studies where only limited quantities of test substance are available. At latest we have added the Ossabaw pig to our model catalogue, which is especially advantageous for studies within metabolic syndrome.

In large animal models we have experience with:

• Longer PK studies
• Advanced pharmacological and surgical disease modeling
• Efficacy studies within cardiovascular and kidney disease
• Biodistribution using molecular imaging
• Radiation dosimetry including extrapolation to human dosimetry
• Dermatology studies
• Microbiome studies

Small animals

In our small animal facility we house mice and rats. We have broad experience performing studies within a wide variety of commercially available rodent models. Throughout the years we established and benchmarked several in-house disease models. The models are always readily available for efficacy studies. We can perform studies with cell line based models as well as PDX models available through the XenoSTART-MINERVA collaboration.

In small animal models we have experience with:

• Efficacy studies in oncology including targeted radionuclide therapy and external radiation therapy. Available in syngeneic or xenograft cancer models, established as subcutaneous, orthotopic or metastatic models.
• Efficacy studies in heart failure models
• Biodistribution studies using molecular imaging (MRI, SPECT/PET CT, Ultrasound, Bioluminescence)
• Radiation dosimetry including extrapolation to human dosimetry
• PK studies
• Safety pharmacology testing
• Infection models
• Microbiome studies
• Inhalation studies