In preclinical studies, accurate positioning and continuous monitoring of gene therapy interventions, medical devices and pharmaceutical formulations are vital for ensuring safety and efficacy. Attentive Science has expanded its contract research capabilities by adopting C-arm and X-ray competences. The C-arm is a powerful imaging tool that enables real-time, non-invasive visualization and provides crucial insights during nonclinical research. Whether assessing the integrity of drug delivery systems or guiding gene therapy procedures, the C-arm is a key player in modern research making it ideal for a wide range of applications in preclinical research.

What is a C-arm? A C-arm is a mobile, X-ray imaging device that provides live, fluoroscopic images. Named for its distinctive "C" shaped arm, which links the X-ray source and detector, the C-arm can rotate around the subject, offering flexibility and precision in imaging. The size and scope of the typical C-arm might seem disproportionate when considering its use in nonclinical gene therapy studies involving small test systems. However, there are miniaturized C-arms designed specifically for such applications, and they offer the same real-time, high-resolution imaging benefits in a compact form suited for smaller test systems.

C-arm in Gene Therapy Studies

Gene therapy involves introducing or modifying genes to treat or prevent diseases into target tissues. Attentive Science employs the powerful new tool (the C-arm) for real-time navigation of tiny anatomical structures (such as a blood vessel) with a catheter or injection needle ensuring that a gene vector is precisely administered into the desired tissue or organ, such as the brain, heart, or spine. In nonclinical studies, the C-arm’s real-time imaging capabilities provide a significant advantage in monitoring these delicate procedures.

Monitoring Post-delivery Gene Expression:

In preclinical (nonclinical) studies, it is critical to monitor the therapeutic outcome over time. The C-arm allows the Attentive Scientist’s to observe anatomical changes resulting from gene therapy interventions. For instance, in bone regeneration studies using gene therapy, the C-arm can track the growth and remodeling of bone tissue over time. Similarly, in cardiovascular gene therapy, the C-arm can help visualize the effects of angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels) induced by gene delivery.

Assessing Vector Integrity:

Gene delivery systems, particularly non-viral vectors, can degrade over time or be influenced by biological processes within the test system. The C-arm helps Attentive Scientist’s monitor the integrity of delivery systems and ensure they are functioning as expected, providing real-time feedback on the localization and effectiveness of gene therapy interventions.

C-arm in Medical Device Integrity

Monitoring Drug Delivery Devices:

Pharmaceutical devices, such as drug-eluting stents or biodegradable implants, require careful placement and ongoing monitoring in preclinical studies. The C-arm allows the Attentive Scientist to visually confirm the accurate positioning of these devices, ensuring that they are placed in the correct anatomical location. For devices designed to release drugs over time, such as biodegradable implants, C-arm imaging provides a non-invasive way to monitor device integrity and assess drug release.

Guiding Surgical Procedures:

When medical devices or implants are introduced into complex anatomical areas such as the vascular system or joints the C-arm provides real-time feedback during surgical placement, thereby reducing the likelihood of complications and improving the study's safety and accuracy.

Tracking Device Movement:

Some medical devices can migrate from their original placement over time. The use of the C-arm allows Attentive Science real-time imaging and monitoring of devices engineered for gastrointestinal, cardiovascular or orthopedic studies. This is critical for Attentive Scientist’s to track and adjust device positioning if needed, preventing potential adverse effects.

Advantages of C-arm Imaging in Preclinical Research

The C-arm’s dynamic imaging capability enables real-time adjustments for procedural accuracy, continuous non-invasive monitoring, minimized test system stress while improving reliability, and enhancing study efficacy and safety.

Attentive Science is excited to announce that we are now equipped to meet your Gene Therapy and Medical Device study requirements.

The C-arm is an indispensable tool in nonclinical studies and Attentive Science stays abreast with technological advances by expanding its C-arm capabilities. Whether guiding the placement of therapeutic devices or visualizing the biological effects of gene therapies, the C-arm helps Attentive Scientist ensure that the study's objectives are met while minimizing risks ultimately paving the way for safer and more effective treatments.

Contact us to learn how Attentive Science can help you achieve your goals efficiently and accurately.