Oncology

Epistem provides quantitative in vitro and in vivo models of angiogenesis. These models enable the evaluation of efficacy on human vessels and can be used for the assessment of species-specific therapies such as humanised antibodies. The development of blood vessels to support tissues is essential: inhibition of this process can be exploited for oncology therapy or stimulated to promote wound healing.

In Vitro Angiogenesis Assay

Epistem's in vitro angiogenesis assay is performed using human endothelial cells. These cells form a network of anastamosing tubules resembling a capillary bed. Vessels can be labelled by immunohistochemistry and the effect of a novel therapeutic agent on vessel length and branching quantified by image analysis.

In Vivo Angiogenesis Model

Epistem has developed a novel approach for the assessment of anti-angiogenic agents based on human skin xenografts. Human skin containing viable endothelium is engrafted on to a host and angiogenesis occurs. Vessels from the two species anastamose and the human vessels become perfused by the host.

The effect of therapeutic agents on both human and host angiogenesis can be assessed in histological sections with species-specific CD31 immunohistochemistry and vessel quantification using image analysis (Aperio® ScanScope®).