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Biometrology measurements

Transfection and drug delivery capabilities

Measuring and characterising drug uptake

Transfection is the process of introducing nucleic acid into a cell. NPL can measure the formation and uptake of drug delivery vectors and their cargo into cells. We employ biophysics, microscopy and cell biology to characterise and measure uptake and biological activity of nucleic acid and protein cargo delivered to cells. To aid comparative measurements of uptake we can prepare vector standards with well characterised properties and bio-activity, to support higher order reference measurements.

We use microscopy techniques to try to address:

  • How much nucleic acid drug or vaccine is taken up by a cell.
  • How well is a delivery system packaging the drug cargo.
  • Whether the drug delivery system is toxic to a cell line.
  • The dynamics of uptake and cargo release in the cell.
  • What the mechanism of cell uptake for a vector is.
  • How therapeutically active the drug is when delivered with different vectors.

Various bioassay, biophysical and imaging techniques provide a comprehensive characterisation of nucleic acid and vaccine drug delivery. These services are delivered using the following equipment:

  • Flow Cytometry (FC) – reporter assays and cell viability.
  • qPCR – Oligonucleotide quantitation.
  • Particle characterisation – DLS, zeta potential.

Don’t see what you are looking for? Our diverse skill set enables us to provide bespoke solutions. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

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Research

We develop cutting edge measurement tools and methods to unlock new applications, from drug discovery to synthetic biology. Our knowledge of biophysical measurements helps us understand the relationship between biological systems and processes.

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Our research and measurement solutions support innovation and product development. We work with companies to deliver business advantage and commercial success.
Contact our Customer Services team on +44 20 8943 7070