INFLAMMATION SERVICES
 
 
 OVERVIEW
 

MIR Preclinical Services' is a contract research oganization that offers a wide range of animal models for the study of acute and chronic inflammatory conditions. By combing classical pharmacology studies with our state of the art imaging and drug discovery expertise, MIR can produce comprehensive data packages for our clients that no one else can offer. We offer traditional biochemical analysis in our studies as well as customized assays. Below is a summary of preclinical inflammation offerings:

MODEL
SPECIES
READOUT
DURATION
PROS & CONS

Models of Arthritis

Mice and Rats

LPS-Induced Cytokine Release

Mice and Rats

Serum cytokine levels (e.g. TNF-alpha, IL-1, etc.)

Hours

Highly predictable. Can be run in one day.

Carrageenan Induced Footpad Edema

Mice and Rats

Paw swelling

Tissue/Serum Cytokines

Hours

Generalized inflammatory mechanism. Can examine exudate.

Delayed Type Hypersensitivity (DTH)

Mice

Swelling

Hours (After initial priming)

Requires 14 days of priming. TH1 mechanism.

Air Pouch

Mice and Rats

Cell Migratiom

Hours

Requires preparation time for air pouch

Custom Models

Mice and Rats

Client-Driven

Client-Driven

 MODELS OF ARTHRITIS
 

MIR Preclinical Services offers a large variety of preclinical models of arthritis. These models are predominantly for rheumatoid arthritis but the validation of osteoarthritic models are already underway. For a full list preclinical models of rheumatoid arthritis, please click on the link below. For details regarding preclinical models of osteoarthritis, plase contact MIR at the number below or at info@molecularimaging.com.

CLICK HERE FOR A FULL LIST OF PRECLINICAL MODELS OF RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

 LPS INDUCED CYTOKINE RELEASE
 

This rapid, in vivo model system is ideal for obtaining a quick readout on the effect of a test agent on the release of cytokines and other potent inflammatory mediators in response to a generalized bacterial insult. The assay can be run in vivo, ex vivo, or in vitro by using whole blood or isolated peripheral mononuclear cells.

 DELAYED TYPE HYPERSENSITIVITY
 
These models assess the immune system’s memory capabilities and responses. As such, it integrates a specific response (TH1 driven) as well as the recruitment of neutrophils and macrophages in response to the elaboration of mediators released.
 CARRAGEENAN INDUCED FOOTPAD EDEMA
 
This is another rapid assessment of the overall inflammatory process. The readout of footpad swelling is an indirect measure of inflammation. However, the inflammatory exudate in the paw can be collected and examined.
 AIR POUCH GRANULOMA
 

The air pouch granuloma model is a functional assessment of the ability of a compound to inhibit cellular recruitment and the release of inflammatory mediators in response to an agonist. The model can employ various inflammatory insults and can be left in place for as little as a few hours, or as long as several days.

 CUSTOM MODELS
 

MIR Preclinical Services is happy to collaborate with clients to develop models for clients’ use. If we do not have a model that is commercially available, MIR can develop the model for clients use at a reduced or shared cost, depending on demand for that model. MIR is also happy to performed client directed research if within our capabilities. MIR has an active internal research and development program to develop new client offering. Please feel free to inquire on new models under development. All protocols performed by MIR must be approved by MIR’s animal care and use committee and in line with all NIH and OLAW guidelines.

 
 
 
800 Technology Drive• Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108
Phone: 734.821.1063 Fax:734.821.1066
   
updated:  5/1/08