Breakthrough in drug testing trials

ALMOST-invisible sensors being developed by Irish researchers could speed up the availability of lifesaving drugs and dramatically reduce the need for animal testing of cosmetics.

The Toxichip technology devised at the Tyndall National Institute is already being sought for licensing by international cosmetic and pharmaceutical companies, as the four-year project reaches its end.

Project co-ordinator Dr Eric Moore said a range of uses are possible for the system, which analyses the reactions of animal or human cells to the introduction of chemicals.