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Scientist holding a multi-well assay plate in a laboratory

Preclinical Research

Proven atthe bench

Predictions become evidence in our laboratory. We test efficacy, selectivity, pharmacokinetics and early safety before a molecule is nominated as a candidate.

  • Orthogonal assaysBiochemical, biophysical and cellular assays confirm each hit independently.
  • Disease-relevant modelsPrimary cells, organoids and patient-derived material where available.
  • Fast feedbackAssay data returns to the design models within the same cycle.
Clinical development

Stage gates

From hit to candidate

  1. 01

    Hit confirmation

    Dose–response and orthogonal assays rule out artefacts and confirm on-target activity.

  2. 02

    Lead optimisation

    Iterative design improves potency, selectivity and drug-like properties together.

  3. 03

    In vivo pharmacology

    Pharmacokinetics and proof-of-mechanism in relevant models, following the 3Rs.

  4. 04

    Early safety

    In vitro safety panels, genotoxicity screens and exploratory toxicology.

  5. 05

    Candidate nomination

    A molecule meeting the pre-agreed target candidate profile enters IND-enabling studies.

Pharmacokinetic data displayed above laboratory glassware

Animal welfare

Replace, reduce, refine

We follow the 3Rs principles. In silico prediction and in vitro models are used first, so in vivo studies are run only when they are scientifically necessary and designed to use the fewest animals possible.

All in vivo work is conducted under applicable ethical review and licensing, directly or through accredited partners.