In Vitro Neurobiology

Pain Receptor Neuropharmacology
A number of receptors have been implicated as important in pain modulation, including GABA and alpha adrenergic neurotransmitters, Cox-2 enzyme, and calcium and sodium channels.

SRI is a leading expert in the field of opiate receptor neuropharmacology. We are a long-time NIDA contractor for testing opiate receptor ligand binding. For years we have used our talents to isolate receptors and develop functional assays as useful research tools for our clients. While we do not offer a large number of high throughput assays on a day-to-day basis, we develop and implement receptor-based assays as needed by our clients. Services include

• Developing novel assays
• Improving existing assay techniques
• Automation of assays for medium to high throughput.

Neurobiology Assays

In vitro neurobiology assays

• Primary and cell line assays to screen potential neurotrophic factors and protectants, excitotoxins and neurotoxins
• Primary neuronal and glial tissue models to screen compounds for effects on cell survival, neurite outgrowth, and myelination.

Neuronal stem cell assays

• Quantitative assessment of neuronal stem cell proliferation and survival
• Effects of neuroactive compounds on neurogenesis and gliogenesis
• CNS regeneration with in vivo stimulation of neural precursors.

Molecular Biology

• RNA isolation and analysis for specific brain regions
• GeneChip® analysis
• Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (rt-PCR)

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       Last Updated Jul 17, 2008