• Lonza launched PyroCell® MAT Rapid System and PyroCell® MAT Human Serum (HS) Rapid System, two sustainable monocyte activation test (MAT) systems containing the new PeliKine Human IL-6 Rapid ELISA Kit
• Improved ELISA procedure reduces hands-on time for cytokine detection and increases efficiency in product safety testing
• New rapid ELISA kits to allow easier and more efficient adoption of sustainable, rabbit-free pyrogen testing

Historically, pyrogen testing of pharmaceuticals has relied on the Rabbit Pyrogen Test (RPT), an unsustainable method requiring significant time-to-results. Pharma manufacturers now face growing pressure to discontinue the RPT due to ethical concerns, regulatory initiatives, and directives to increase the efficiency of QC pyrogen testing programs.

Lonza’s PyroCell® MAT Rapid Systems, with the new PeliKine Human IL-6 Rapid ELISA Kit, help streamline QC testing workflows. The new ELISA kit contains pre-coated plates and an improved protocol with combined incubation steps, minimizing hands-on time and reducing time-to-results to just two hours. The new rapid ELISA kit results are comparable to the current industry standard, making switching to the new test simple for customers. Most critically, the new rapid ELISA kit has been specifically validated for use with the MAT.

Orla Cloak, VP, Head of Bioprocessing Solutions, Lonza, commented: “With the RPT set to be discontinued in Europe by 2026, and sustainability a growing focus, pharmaceutical manufacturers are looking to adopt an RPT replacement. We’ve leveraged our long collaboration with Essange Reagents, formerly Sanquin Reagents, to deliver the new PyroCell® MAT Rapid Systems, offering customers two MAT solutions that are easier to execute. Transitioning to rabbit-free, sustainable pyrogen testing has never been simpler.”

Lonza will discontinue its current PyroCell® MAT System and PyroCell® MAT Human Serum (HS) System by early 2024.