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In Vitro Modeling Platform for Stroke Drug Screening
Despite the high degree of disability from late neurological deficits, and as a leading cause of both long-term memory impairments and death worldwide, effective restorative strategies for brain parenchyma damaged by IR injury have been stalled due to deficiencies in existing animal models. Ace Therapeutics in vitro stroke models find a solution to both of these challenges, through the use of human-relevant and precise reversible experimental conditions. The service has dedicated models for both of the two main stroke types:
Ischemic Stroke Modeling
Using the hypoxia-glucose deprivation (OGD) method, Ace Therapeutics recreates ischemia-like energy deficiency conditions in vitro, enabling a detailed study of neuronal cell death mechanisms and potential recovery pathways. The company is also advancing 3D in vitro models of ischemic stroke, which more accurately replicate the complex microenvironment of the human brain, enhancing the predictive value of drug screening assays.
Hemorrhagic Stroke Modeling
For intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), Ace Therapeutics offers validated models constructed through multiple methods—including exposure to hemoglobin, heme, autologous blood, hydrogen peroxide, and glutamate—paired with phenotypic assays that analyze key parameters of cellular damage. These models support rapid, reliable screening of compounds targeting hemorrhagic stroke-related pathology.
To ensure flexibility and relevance to diverse research needs, Ace Therapeutics provides a robust suite of cellular platforms, including:
Organotypic brain slice cultures
Immortalized cell lines
Primary cells
Embryonic stem cell (ESC)-derived neurons
Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia
Neural organoids
The in vitro models offer distinct advantages over traditional approaches: they are highly reproducible, cost-effective, and easy to maintain, while enabling high-throughput screening of hundreds of compounds for efficacy and safety. By focusing on specific molecular pathways and cell types relevant to stroke pathology, researchers can zero in on critical mechanisms of action, reducing experimental variability and accelerating decision-making. Human-centric in vitro systems also provide valuable early insights into drug safety, mitigating risks associated with late-stage clinical trial failures.
Ace Therapeutics’ team of scientists brings extensive experience in in vitro pharmacological characterization, working closely with partners to design experiments that align with their drug discovery objectives. In addition to its standard model offerings, Ace Therapeutics specializes in other preclinical stroke CRO services, continuously innovating new technologies to address emerging research needs. Pharmaceutical and biotech companies seeking to advance stroke therapies are invited to contact Ace Therapeutics to discuss tailored solutions. Learn more about MCAO model.