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Accelerating Liver Cancer Drug Development

Cancer and liver diseases represent some of the most complex and urgent challenges in modern therapeutics, demanding innovative solutions and rigorous scientific evaluation. Alfa Cytology stands at the forefront as a specialized partner in preclinical drug development for cancer and liver indications, delivering a seamless continuum of services from target validation through IND-enabling studies. Leveraging deep scientific expertise and advanced technology platforms, Alfa Cytology designs and executes robust preclinical programs that generate high-quality, decision-enabling data. Our integrated approach encompasses in vitro and in vivo pharmacology, efficacy and safety assessments, and translational biomarker strategies, all conducted in strict adherence to international regulatory standards. Alfa Cytology’s multidisciplinary team combines scientific rigor with regulatory insight, ensuring that each program advances efficiently toward clinical entry. Committed to accelerating therapeutic breakthroughs, Alfa Cytology empowers clients to navigate the complexities of cancer and liver drug development with confidence and speed.

What is Liver CancerTargets for Liver CancerDrug Discovery and Development ServicesWhy Choose Us

What is Liver Cancer

Liver cancer, or hepatic cancer, refers to malignant tumors originating in the liver, with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) being the most common type. The disease primarily arises due to chronic liver injury and inflammation, commonly linked to hepatitis B or C infections, chronic alcohol use, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and exposure to toxins such as aflatoxins. These risk factors lead to repeated cycles of liver cell death and regeneration, increasing the likelihood of genetic mutations and cellular dysregulation that drive cancer development. Other less common forms include intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma, hepatoblastoma (mainly in children), and angiosarcoma. Liver cancer often remains asymptomatic in its early stages, leading to late diagnosis when the disease is advanced. When present, symptoms may include abdominal pain, weight loss, jaundice, and signs of liver failure. Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical evaluation, blood tests (such as alpha-fetoprotein), and advanced imaging techniques like contrast-enhanced CT or MRI. Biopsy may be performed in uncertain cases. Treatment options depend on the cancer stage and liver function, ranging from surgical resection and liver transplantation to locoregional therapies, systemic targeted therapies, and immunotherapies. Recent advances include immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted drugs that have improved outcomes for some patients, though overall prognosis remains poor due to late detection.

Launched Drugs

Structure Generic Name CAS Registry Number Molecular Formula Molecular Weight
bevacizumab
ticilimumab; tremelimumab (Prop INN; USAN) 745013-59-6
donafenib 1130115-44-4 C21 H16 Cl F3 N4 O3 467.801
tislelizumab (Rec INN; USAN); tislelizumab-jsgr 1858168-59-8
sintilimab (Rec INN; USAN) 2072873-06-2
toripalimab (Rec INN; USAN) 1924598-82-2
camrelizumab (Rec INN); karelizumab 1798286-48-2
durvalumab (Rec INN; USAN) 1428935-60-7
atezolizumab (Rec INN; USAN) 1380723-44-3

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Targets for Liver Cancer

Targets in Clinical or Later Phases of Development

Target Name Gene Symbol
Pim-1 proto-oncogene, serine/threonine kinase PIM1
DNA Topoisomerase II (nonspecified subtype)
thioredoxin TXN
thymidylate synthetase TYMS
BCL2 apoptosis regulator BCL2
basigin (Ok blood group) BSG
ABL proto-oncogene 1, non-receptor tyrosine kinase ABL1
B-Raf proto-oncogene, serine/threonine kinase BRAF
Carbonic Anhydrase (nonspecified subtype)
Bruton tyrosine kinase BTK

Liver cancer, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is driven by a complex network of molecular targets that regulate cell proliferation, survival, and the tumor microenvironment. Central among these are oncogenic kinases such as ABL1, BRAF, SRC, and PIM1, which orchestrate aberrant signaling through pathways like MAPK/ERK, PI3K/AKT, and JAK/STAT to promote malignant transformation, tumor growth, and metastasis. Apoptosis and cell survival regulators, including BCL2 and BIRC5 (survivin), enable tumor cells to evade programmed cell death and resist chemotherapy by inhibiting pro-apoptotic signaling and supporting cell cycle progression. Additionally, inflammatory mediators like tumor necrosis factor (TNF) shape the tumor microenvironment by fostering chronic inflammation, promoting hepatocyte injury, and supporting compensatory proliferation, all of which contribute to hepatocarcinogenesis.

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Drug Discovery and Development Services

In Vitro Efficacy Testing ServicesIn Vivo Model DevelopmentPK/PD Study ServicesIn Vivo Toxicity Assessment ServicesBiomarker Analysis Services

Our In Vitro Efficacy Testing Service accelerates liver cancer drug discovery by providing robust, sensitive platforms for evaluating compound efficacy, cytotoxicity, and mechanism of action. We specialize in hepatocellular carcinoma, targeting key pathways such as PI3K/AKT, Wnt/β-catenin, and proteins including B-Raf, Bcl2, RET, Src, and TNF. Utilizing advanced ATP, chemiluminescent, ELISA, fluorescent, and RNA-based assays, we deliver comprehensive assessments of cell viability, protein expression, and gene modulation. Key pharmacological parameters—IC-50, MEC, and MIC—guide lead optimization, supporting informed decision-making and accelerating preclinical development for innovative liver cancer therapeutics.

B-Raf Proto-Oncogene, Serine/Threonine Kinase Bcl2 Apoptosis Regulator
Ret Proto-Oncogene Src Proto-Oncogene, Non-Receptor Tyrosine Kinase
Tumor Necrosis Factor

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Why Choose Us

At Alfa Cytology, we are dedicated to advancing the field of Cancer, liver therapeutics through our specialized expertise and unwavering commitment to excellence. Our team comprises seasoned professionals with deep experience in Cancer, liver research and preclinical drug development, ensuring that every project benefits from the highest level of scientific rigor and insight. Alfa Cytology is equipped with state-of-the-art technology platforms, enabling us to deliver innovative and reliable solutions tailored to the unique challenges of Cancer, liver drug development. Our proven track record in preclinical services reflects our reliability and ability to consistently meet the needs of our partners, from early-stage discovery through to advanced preclinical studies. We adhere strictly to internationally recognized quality standards and regulatory guidelines, providing our clients with confidence in the integrity and compliance of our work. At Alfa Cytology, we are not only committed to scientific excellence but also to making a meaningful impact in the fight against Cancer, liver diseases. By choosing Alfa Cytology, you are partnering with a trusted leader dedicated to driving progress in Cancer, liver therapeutics.

FAQs for Our Services

Q: What are the key preclinical research challenges specific to developing new drugs for liver cancer?

A: Liver cancer presents unique preclinical challenges, including the need for physiologically relevant in vitro and in vivo models that accurately recapitulate the tumor microenvironment and heterogeneity found in human liver cancers. Additionally, the liver's complex metabolic functions can influence drug metabolism and toxicity, making it essential to assess off-target effects and hepatotoxicity early in development. Our company addresses these challenges by employing advanced 3D cell culture systems, patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, and state-of-the-art molecular profiling to ensure translational relevance and robust data.

Q: What are the main regulatory considerations for preclinical development of liver cancer therapeutics?

A: Regulatory agencies such as the FDA and EMA require comprehensive preclinical data demonstrating the safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of investigational drugs before clinical trials can begin. For liver cancer drugs, this includes detailed toxicology studies, genotoxicity assessments, and evaluation of potential hepatotoxicity. Our team ensures full compliance with ICH guidelines, prepares all necessary documentation, and provides expert guidance on regulatory submissions to facilitate smooth IND/CTA filings.

Q: What technical aspects are critical in preclinical liver cancer research?

A: Critical technical aspects include the selection of appropriate in vitro and in vivo models, accurate assessment of drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics in the hepatic context, and the use of advanced imaging and biomarker analysis to monitor tumor progression and drug response. Our company leverages cutting-edge technologies such as CRISPR gene editing, high-throughput screening, and multi-omics approaches to deliver comprehensive preclinical data packages tailored for liver cancer therapeutics.

Q: How long does preclinical development for liver cancer drugs typically take, and what are the associated costs?

A: Preclinical development timelines for liver cancer drugs generally range from 18 to 36 months, depending on the complexity of the compound and the extent of required studies. Costs can vary widely, typically ranging from $2 million to $5 million for a full preclinical package, including efficacy, safety, pharmacology, and regulatory documentation. Our company offers flexible, milestone-based pricing and project management to optimize both timelines and budgets for our clients.

Q: What are the key success factors in preclinical drug development for liver cancer?

A: Success in preclinical liver cancer drug development relies on early identification of lead candidates with high efficacy and low toxicity, robust translational models, and thorough understanding of the disease biology. Close collaboration between multidisciplinary teams, proactive risk management, and adherence to regulatory standards are also crucial. Our integrated approach combines scientific expertise, advanced technologies, and regulatory insight to maximize the likelihood of successful transition to clinical development.

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