Innovative Approaches in Pharmacology
Viva Biotech has been at the forefront of advancing drug discovery, especially in the realm of Drug Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics (PKPD). As therapeutic modalities diversify, the importance of an integrated pharmacology platform has never been greater. This platform not only supports traditional programs but also expands to encompass various drug types, making it a valuable asset in today's pharmaceutical landscape.
Comprehensive Support for Different Drug Modalities
Recently, Dr. Justin Cui, who serves as the Vice President of Pharmacology at Viva Biotech, showcased their impressive capabilities during a session of the Viva BioInsights webinar series. Dr. Cui pointed out that small molecules, PROTACs, and peptides usually follow a similar ADME/PK logic. This includes physicochemical profiling and metabolic stability assessments involving various cellular models. The key to success lies not just in a checklist approach, but rather in the frameworks applied to assess large volumes of programs, utilizing exposure metrics to guide early compound evaluations.
Peptide Programs and Their Unique Challenges
Viva Biotech's support for peptide programs encompasses cross-species pharmacokinetic designs, which include multiple administration routes such as subcutaneous and intravenous. Additionally, comprehensive metabolite profiling is conducted to ensure a thorough understanding of drug behavior. By consistently employing WinNonlin-based analysis across all modalities, Viva ensures a unified approach to data interpretation, allowing for meaningful comparisons between peptide and small molecule programs.
Antibody Programs: A Specialized Approach
When shifting focus to antibody programs, Viva Biotech employs distinct strategies based on unique biological characteristics like FcRn biology, which plays a critical role in pharmacokinetic profiles. A major highlight includes the engineered hFcRn/B2M–MDCK Transwell system, designed to measure antibody transcytosis efficiently. This innovative method not only facilitates in vitro screenings but also correlates strongly with published clinical data, helping in the initial selection of promising candidates before embarking on more extensive in vivo studies.
Linking DMPK Decisions with Mechanistic Insights
The webinar emphasized the significance of combining DMPK decisions with mechanistic bioassays. Viva Biotech has developed a robust immunology in vitro portfolio, encompassing various assays to evaluate immune responses. These efforts are complemented by their capabilities in vivo, such as tumor efficacy evaluation across different model systems. This integrative approach supports a holistic view of drug exposure and its effects, aiding in the accurate assessment of functional outcomes in disease contexts.
Strengthening Drug Discovery with Comprehensive Experience
With over a decade of experience in early drug discovery, Viva Biotech has cultivated extensive DMPK, pharmacology, and efficacy capabilities. The company has continually enhanced this foundation through facility expansions and a deeper integration of antibody pharmacokinetics into disease-focused studies. Dr. Cui's insights illustrate a well-rounded DMPK platform that connects structure-based discovery with ADME, pharmacokinetics, pharmacology, and toxicology efforts—ultimately supporting data-driven decision-making throughout the preclinical phase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of Viva Biotech's pharmacology platform?
The platform focuses on Drug Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics (PKPD), supporting various drug modalities from small molecules to antibodies.
Who presented the insights on Viva Biotech's capabilities at the webinar?
Dr. Justin Cui, the Vice President of Pharmacology at Viva Biotech, led the presentation.
What methods does Viva Biotech use to evaluate antibody pharmacokinetics?
Viva employs engineered systems to facilitate in vitro assessments and correlates these findings with clinical data for better candidate selection.
How does Viva Biotech integrate DMPK with mechanistic studies?
By combining DMPK decisions with mechanistic bioassays, Viva enhances the understanding of exposure, target engagement, and functional outcomes in relevant disease models.
What therapeutic areas does Viva Biotech focus on?
Viva Biotech focuses on oncology, autoimmune, metabolic diseases, and more, applying its DMPK capabilities across diverse therapeutic sectors.
