Lonza PyroCell Monocyte Activation Test - Human Serum System

Lonza has launched the PyroCell Monocyte Activation Test - Human Serum System (PyroCell MAT HS System), which uses human serum instead of foetal bovine serum.

The in vitro pyrogen testing system is designed to exhibit sensitivity for detection of non-endotoxin pyrogens as well as reduced interferences from complex drug products such as biologics-based pharmaceuticals. By replacing foetal bovine serum, the system reduces the need for experimental animals and animal-derived components in pyrogen testing.

The Monocyte Activation Test (MAT) is an in vitro pyrogenicity test that mimics the human immune response to both bacterial endotoxin and non-endotoxin pyrogens (NEPs). The MAT serves to replace the rabbit pyrogen test, thereby reducing reliance on experimental animals.

Conducting the MAT involves a cell culture step that requires a serum source, and different serum sources provide different reactivity profiles. The use of human serum may exhibit decreased interferences from complex product matrices and increased sensitivity to NEPs.