Standardization in Genetic Toxicology
Genetic toxicology relies on various tests governed by local and international guidelines, with OECD standards playing a key role. Many tests, especially in preclinical drug or chemical development, involve microscopic image analysis, where standardization and time efficiency are crucial.
By customizing our Metafer Platform Software, toxicology labs can automate these evaluations in full compliance with OECD guidelines and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards. This automation boosts throughput and standardization in microscopy workflows, combining it with seamless data exchange with laboratory information systems (LIMS). With decades of expertise in imaging, our application specialists help toxicology labs enhance productivity, maintain regulatory compliance, and achieve consistent, reliable safety assessments.
Metaphase Detection
Users have successfully implemented the Metafer Platform Software with our assistance to detect metaphases in various preparation techniques, including G-banding, R-banding, Q-banding, and DAPI banding. With support from MetaSystems application specialists, users can tailor their installations to include Deep Neural Networks (DNNs) to address challenging preparations. Automated image capture is scalable to process up to 800 slides in a single run.
Aberration Scoring
Automated detection of dicentric chromosomes (DICs) offers high-throughput analysis with user-adjustable parameters. Integrated tools, like an interactive Chi-square calculator, enable rapid statistical evaluations, while flexible reporting options allow for seamless export or printing. The software offers features to document images, processing and results that allow users to configure a workflow following GLP standards.
Counting of Foci
Metafer streamlines the visualization and quantification of γ-H2AX foci, markers of double-strand DNA breaks (DSBs) linked to genomic instability. γ-H2AX foci are automatically detected and counted using Metafer’s spot-counting features. Custom workflows enable fine-tuning of scoring criteria to account for varying foci sizes or merged signals, adapting to specific experimental needs.
in vivo MN Test
The in vivo micronucleus test (erythrocyte MN test) evaluates chromosomal damage in rodents by analyzing red blood cells as polychromatic (PCE) or normochromatic (NCE) erythrocytes. MetaSystems’ Metafer Platform automates this process, enabling unattended digitization and dynamic PCE/NCE separation based on staining intensity. Micronuclei in PCEs are automatically detected to calculate key parameters like micronucleus rate and PCE/NCE ratio. Validated in GLP-certified labs, this workflow adheres to OECD Guideline #474, ensuring robust statistical evaluation and regulatory compliance for pharmaceutical, chemical, and cosmetic testing.
in vitro MN Test
The Cytokinesis-Block Micronucleus (CBMN) assay is a widely used method in genetic toxicology and biological dosimetry for detecting DNA damage by analyzing binucleated cells for micronuclei. The Metafer Platform streamlines this process with automated slide scanning, cell detection, and micronucleus counting, displaying results in an intuitive gallery linked to slide positions. Tailored workflows reduce workload, improve standardization, and enable efficient analysis in radiation dose estimation and genetic toxicology studies.
Ames Test
The Ames test is a biological assay used to evaluate the mutagenic potential of chemical substances by exposing mutant bacterial strains to the test substance. A modern variation involves growing bacteria in indicator media on microwell plates, where color changes signal growth. Metafer software enables automated scanning of these plates, analyzing color changes to identify and quantify positive cultures. Customizable reports, formatted to test kit specifications, can be generated and archived with raw data for a comprehensive toxicology study.