Adipose Tissue

The aOFM system is a next-generation tool for collecting interstitial fluid (ISF) directly from adipose tissue. Its unique, membrane-free probe, made from an inert, high-tech polymer, has large openings that allows unrestricted substance exchange from the tissue and into the tissue. Due to the open structure and the direct interface to the tissue, it can capture a complete range of substances, from small molecules to large proteins and even immune competent cells. Furthermore, highly lipophilic substances can be sampled and applied.

A small, wearable push-pull pump keeps sampling stable for up to 72 hours, allowing long, continuous monitoring with a certain amount of mobility for the study participants. The system is CE-certified for clinical use and is well tolerated by study participants. With aOFM, researchers can access high-quality ISF samples without the problems of traditional membrane-based methods: no clogged membranes, no protein adsorption, and no distortion of sample composition. This makes it possible to measure concentrations of various drug compounds, glucose, insulin, cytokines, and albumin directly in the target tissue over extended periods of time.

aOFM has already delivered important scientific insights by simultaneously monitoring multiple tissue compartments, such as dermis, muscle and adipose tissues, to deliver time-resolved pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) data. aOFM has also enabled a highly controlled subcutaneous infusion of substances, such as insulin and antibodies, in order to investigate their tissue uptake and distribution dynamics. aOFM even demonstrated a reliable prediction of the bioavailability of monoclonal antibodies after their subcutaneous application.

Today, aOFM is expanding into new research areas, including transgenic animal studies, autoimmune diseases, and wound healing.