Press Release: Toxys launches MutaTracker
PRESS RELEASE
Toxys launches MutaTracker®, an all-in-one mammalian cell-based mutagenicity and genotoxicity assay
Toxys announces the release of MutaTracker®, an innovative new approach method that integrates error-corrected sequencing into the ToxTracker® genotoxicity assay
Oegstgeest, The Netherlands. September 3rd, 2024 – Mutagentech and Toxys have collaborated on creating MutaTracker®, a mammalian cell-based mutagenicity and genotoxicity assay that combines the reliable readout from ToxTracker with error-corrected single-molecule mutation sequencing (SMM-seq). ToxTracker is a unique stem cell-based reporter assay used to detect genotoxic potential while providing insight into compound mode-of-action (MOA). Alone, the assay can discriminate between direct DNA reactivity and indirect genotoxicity related to aneugenicity, oxidative stress, or protein damage. Using rolling circle amplification, SMM-seq accurately identifies point mutations, resulting in mutation spectra, and can detect structural DNA variants. Together, MutaTracker® is a comprehensive in vitro genotoxicity tool, with increased accuracy when compared to cytogenetic assays, and may replace how the field approaches hazard characterization.
ToxTracker has been extensively validated using various reference compound libraries recommended by international scientific organizations. Currently, ToxTracker is under review by the OECD for the development of a test guideline, which will enable widespread regulatory use of the assay. ToxTracker’s format also facilitates bench-mark dose modeling, which can be converted to human equivalent doses after in vitro to in vivo extrapolation for use during risk assessment. Considering the available assay extensions to elucidate MOA, “…adding error corrected next generation sequencing was the next logical step” says CEO Giel Hendriks.
“At Mutagentech we are focused on bringing cost-effective error-corrected sequencing to the biomedical community to accelerate basic research. Our collaboration with Toxys aligns with this vision while also broadening the utility of SMM-seq during stages of product development to protect human health.” – Chris Bradley, CEO and Co-Founder of Mutagentech
“We are very excited to collaborate with Mutagentech to further grow the suite of ToxTracker assays. Being able to accurately detect gene mutations in ToxTracker cells enhances the specificity of the assay and will build further confidence in identifying direct and indirect genotoxic mechanisms.” – Giel Hendriks, CEO of Toxys
About Mutagentech
Mutagentech is a trailblazing biotechnology company dedicated to advancing the field of genomic research. With a strong focus on genetic stability and mutation analysis, Mutagentech has developed proprietary technologies such as SMM-Seq that allow for the ultra-sensitive detection of mutations and structural DNA variants. These innovations are critical for understanding the genetic mutations in both disease and genotoxicology. Mutagentech’s team of experts is composed of leading scientists and innovators who are committed to translating their pioneering research into practical applications. By fostering collaborations with top-tier academic institutions and industry partners, Mutagentech continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in DNA sequencing and genetic analysis.
About Toxys
Toxys is a Dutch biotech company with a subsidiary in the USA that offers a broad spectrum of innovative in vitro toxicology solutions. Toxys is an expert in toxicological research with a mission to improve animal-free safety testing by creating mechanistic in vitro chemical safety tests to meet the needs for safer medicines, chemicals, and cosmetics. Toxys has developed the unique ToxTracker®, ReproTracker®, and ToxProfiler® assays. ToxTracker is a high-throughput stem cell-based reporter suite of assays that allows reliable identification of genotoxic carcinogens. ReproTracker is an animal-free test to identify compounds that are toxic to human embryonic development. ToxProfiler is a human cell assay for mechanistic toxicity testing. Toxys is currently working with most of the top ten global Pharma companies and several major chemical, cosmetics, and food multinationals. Toxys is highly valued for its scientific expertise, high-quality results, and timely responsiveness.
Media Contact:
Giel Hendriks
CEO of Toxys
+31 71 3322470
g.hendriks@toxys.com
Download the PDF version of this press release below and visit MutaTracker web page for other resources.
