Monolayer cell culture models are gradually being replaced by 3D cell systems, as 3D environments are much better at mimicking in vivo situations. Thanks to these new improvements, the next generation of in vitro models are getting closer towards the final goal of reduction, refinement and, hopefully, replacement of animal experimentation.

To support these efforts and to promote broader use of next-generation in vitro models, Edelweiss Connect is launching a series of workshops on bringing next-generation toxicology closer to the lab. The workshops will present not only novel in vitro techniques and models, but also experimental workflow developments, automatisation of data transfer/integration and novel approaches to in silico modelling.

The first event will be a joint workshop of Edelweiss Connect and Kirkstall, intended to bring scientists up to speed on advanced cell culture systems and the latest approaches to integrated in vitro/in silico methods and experimental data management. The workshop will be held on February 7-8 at Edelweiss Connect’s new lab at its Basel headquarters. Kirkstall will demonstrate its Quasi Vivo® system, an advanced interconnected cell culture flow system, engineered to provide in vivo like conditions for cell growth. Edelweiss Connect will demonstrate how to make in vitro experimental data findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable (i.e., FAIR data principles).

“A combination of lectures, demonstrations, and practical hands-on experience will train participants in both the theory and practices of advanced cell culture techniques and data management practices,” explains Dr. Barry Hardy, CEO, Edelweiss Connect.

“The two-day workshop combines hands-on training with seminar sessions to ensure participants have all the necessary skills and knowledge to independently commence in vitro work using flow conditions for either academic or commercial research. By using flow conditions, instead of conventional static methods, it can significantly enhance the physiological relevance of experimental data,” explains Dr. Shehnaz Ahmed, Technical Support, Kirkstall Ltd.

“Our event will benefit a diverse group of scientists,” says Dr. Tatyana Doktorova, Senior Toxicologist at Edelweiss Connect, who is also responsible for setting up the company’s new lab. “The introduction lectures will help the entry-level scientist gain a better feeling of the fast-developing field of in vitro toxicology, whereas the hands-on sessions will be of great interest to more senior researchers looking to implement novel methodologies at their facilities. Furthermore, a unique panel of sessions will be devoted to experimental data management and integration.”

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