Three experts from Novalix present optimized T cell transfer-induced colitis models for IBD drug validation, utilizing AI-enhanced histology and flow cytometry to evaluate therapeutic efficacy.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), encompassing Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation driven by immune dysregulation and impaired epithelial barrier function. To elucidate the pathogenesis of IBD, various murine models of chronic intestinal inflammation have been developed.
Novalix offers a comprehensive range of in vivo models for inflammatory diseases, including IBD. Our portfolio features well-established models such as dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis and T cell transfer-induced colitis, both of which closely mimic the clinical pathology observed in humans.
We have successfully implemented the traditional 53-day T cell transfer model to support the validation of novel therapeutic approaches. To improve efficiency while preserving translational relevance, we have further developed a shorter optimized 35-day version of this model. Incorporation of anti-IL-12/23p40 treatment enabled the development of a robust 35-day model, ideally suited for assessing novel drug candidates. In this model, disease progression is monitored using the disease activity index and artificial intelligence-enhanced histology. Additionally, the mechanism of action of test compounds can be elucidated through flow cytometry analysis of macrophages and dendritic cells isolated from the colon.
Presenters
Catherine Robin-Jagerschmidt
Catherine Robin-Jagerschmidt is a scientist with nearly 30 years of experience in drug discovery and development. Since 2023, she has been serving as Senior Project Manager in the <i>in vivo</i> translational pharmacology unit at Novalix, where she leads a team developing preclinical models, primarily in the field of inflammation, to support compound characterization.
Didier Merciris
Didier Merciris is a well-seasoned biologist with more than 18 years of experience. In 2025, he was appointed as Head of the Histology department at Novalix, where he leads and oversees all activities related to histology.
Vincent Dumont
Vincent Dumont is a cell biologist and pharmacologist with 9 years of experience in academia and 5 years of experience in pharmaceutical industry. Since 2020, he has been supporting drug discovery programs at Galapagos and Novalix as a pharmacologist and biomarker expert on kidney, oncology and immunology topics.
Sponsor
Novalix
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