Integrated sample collection and handling for drug discovery bioanalysis

Abstract

An integrated sample handling process for drug discovery bioanalysis is described. The streamlining of study design, sample collection and automatic bioanalytical sample processing is demonstrated. Specific details for the entire procedure regarding the time saved, ease of automation and integration are defined. Details of sample handling involved a sample collection map, sample collection formatting and volume, dilution schemes for high concentration samples, choice of biological fluid and evaluating the capabilities of two liquid-handling workstations. Numerous comparisons were conducted between the new approaches and the conventional sample handling approaches. The precision and accuracy obtained from the new integrated sample handling process were comparable to those obtained from a conventional approach, as were pharmacokinetic profiles and parameters. This new sampling process greatly improved the efficiency of drug discovery bioanalysis. The integration of pre-clinical protocol design, sample collection and bioanalysis processes was also achieved. © 2000 Elsevier Science B.V.