Screening solutions to identify 5 alpha reductase inhibitors
Validated in vitro assay for screening 5-alpha reductase inhibitors using radiolabelled testosterone metabolism in prostatic cell models. Adapts established expertise from skin research to prostate applications, enabling identification of compounds that modulate androgen metabolism for drug discovery and cosmetic development.
Overview
This offering provides a validated screening platform for identifying 5-alpha reductase inhibitors using a radiolabelled in vitro assay. The service targets pharmaceutical, biotech, and cosmetic industry partners seeking to discover compounds that modulate androgen metabolism. By adapting established expertise from skin and hair research to prostatic cell models, the platform enables systematic evaluation of candidate molecules for their ability to inhibit 5-alpha reductase activity. This is particularly relevant for drug discovery programs targeting benign prostatic hyperplasia, androgen-related conditions, and dermatological applications where androgen modulation is desired.
Technical specifications
Core methodology:
- Quantification of 5-alpha reductase activity using a validated in vitro radiolabelled assay with [14C]-testosterone
- Measurement of DHT/testosterone ratio in both cell pellet and supernatant
- Analysis of testosterone metabolites via TLC separation, including dihydrotestosterone (DHT), 4-Androstene-3,17-dione, Androstanedione, and 5α-Androstane 3α, 17β-diol
- Gene expression profiling to confirm expression of both 5-alpha reductase isoforms
- Reference inhibitors finasteride and dutasteride used as benchmarks
Available cell models:
- 22Rv1 and RWPE-1 prostate cell lines maintained in-house
- Human normal epithelial prostate cells available through sourcing
- Two-step approach: pilot assay validation followed by screening under optimized conditions
Technology readiness level
The assay is a routine, validated procedure with a published track record in skin and hair research applications. The methodology has been published and used for years on skin cells, providing a strong foundation of reproducibility and scientific credibility. The next phase involves adapting and validating the model on prostatic cells of interest before initiating compound screening. This positions the service at an advanced readiness level for partners seeking immediate screening campaigns or those interested in co-developing expanded applications.
About QIMA Lifesciences
QIMA Life Sciences is a specialized Contract Research Organization (CRO) and CDMO providing end-to-end research and testing services for the pharmaceutical, biotech, and cosmetic industries. The organization operates through a network of specialized laboratories, including entities such as QIMA Bioalternatives, QIMA Newtone, QIMA Monasterium, QIMA Skinpharma, and Oxiproteomics. Their scientific capabilities encompass in vitro, ex vivo, and clinical evaluation, utilizing advanced analytical platforms to support drug discovery, efficacy substantiation, and safety testing from early development stages through to clinical trials. By integrating multidisciplinary expertise in cellular and molecular pharmacology, dermatology, and image processing, they deliver customized, science-driven strategies designed to accelerate development timelines and optimize research outcomes for global clients.
These services are critical for partners seeking to substantiate product claims, improve the success rates of drug candidates, or navigate complex regulatory environments. QIMA Life Sciences leverages state-of-the-art facilities—including over 10,000 square meters of laboratory space and clinical infrastructure equipped for Phase I to IV trials—to provide robust, regulatory-aligned data. With nearly 30 years of experience and a team of over 600 professionals, the organization supports clients in making data-backed R&D decisions. Their commitment to innovation is evidenced by extensive scientific output, including hundreds of published works, which helps clients in the beauty, healthcare, and veterinary sectors ensure their products meet rigorous quality and performance standards.
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