BlueScreen HC uses Gaussia luciferase to detect the upregulation of a key reporter gene, GADD-45a, in response to genotoxic stress and can detect all known classes of genotoxins. Charles River will also offer BlueScreen HC with metabolic activation for the detection of pro-genotoxins, providing valuable additional information for clients.

The new initiative provides Charles River customers with the high accuracy, low compound use and rapid results generation required to identify genotoxic problem compounds earlier in discovery and preclinical development, reducing later stage attrition and increasing the number of candidates progressing into development and the clinic.

Dr Brian Bathgate, Senior Vice President of Global Preclinical Services at Charles River, commented, ‘Charles River is committed to providing exceptional, leading-edge services to our customers in order to help them reduce attrition and increase efficiency in their drug development programs. The introduction of BlueScreen HC will allow Charles River’s customers to access an innovative new technology to assist them with the discovery and development of new drug compounds faster and more cost effectively.’

Dr Steve Beasley, Commercial Director at Gentronix, added, ‘We have been impressed with the technical excellence of the Charles River team and the diligence with which they have validated their BlueScreen HC testing operations. Charles River is well-positioned as an industry leader to bring these new technologies to customers across a wide range of sectors.’