Cellular and Computational ADME Drug Discovery Tools
Cellular and computational models are developed for improved prediction of clinical ADME properties. We are using and further developing the following epithelial cell models: Caco-2, MDCK, MDCK cell lines with transfected human transporter genes, blood-retinal barrier models, corneal and epidermal models. Furthermore, we have generated numerous Sf9 cells that stably express various human ABS efflux transporters. These cell models can be used for drug permeability and transporter interaction studies. Computational modeling activities can be divided into two categories: structure-based models and pharmacokinetic models. Structure-based models include QSAR for oral drug absorption. QSAR models for efflux transport and volume of drug distribution are being developed and tested continuously. Both in vitro and in silico data are integrated into pharmacokinetic simulation models that can be used to estimate the importance of different factors in the physiological setting.
Arto Urtti, Ph.D, Group Leader
Professor Urtti has led the Centre for Drug Research (CDR) at the University of Helsinki since 2005. Professor Urtti’s has authored more than 220 peer-reviewed articles and 20 patents and patent applications.