Metabolic Stability of Low Clearance Compounds
Sygnature’s routine hepatocyte stability assay monitors the disappearance of a substrate in suspension, over 1-2 hours incubation. Evaluating low clearance compounds can be a challenge using existing methods. To accurately determine intrinsic clearance and half-life values of low clearance compounds, Sygnature has developed a method utilising primary human hepatocytes in culture, enabling longer incubation times (typically 24 hours). Data output consists of mean intrinsic clearance (Clint) and half-life (t1/2) measurements.
Protocol
Compound requirements | 10 mM in DMSO, 20µL |
Test Article Concentration | 1 µM |
Hepatocyte Concentration | 0.35 x 106 cells / well |
Incubation Conditions | Up to 24 hours at 37°C |
Time Points | 0, 1, 2, 4, 18, 24 hours |
Analysis Method | LC-MS/MS |
Controls | 2 Positive controls |
Data Delivery | Clint (µL/min/1×106 cells), Half-life (min) |
Results

Figure 1 Control compound CLint data for n=3 experiments.
About Us
The DMPK & Physical Sciences department at Sygnature Discovery is dedicated to understanding and optimising the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of drug candidates by working in close partnership with clients and other departments within Sygnature to provide successful optimisation strategies.
We have extensive know-how and expertise to provide well validated, state-of-the-art assays and a comprehensive applied consultancy service for interpretation of the in vitro ADME and in vivo PK data.
Our corporate vision is to accelerate the discovery of new medicines, from the laboratory into development to treat patients.
Our DMPK mission is to deliver tailored DMPK expertise through innovation, quality and commitment.