Nonclinical Efficacy Testing » Non-Clinical CROs and Agencies » Oncodesign Services

Oncodesign Services

Oncodesign Services is a leading contract research organization (CRO) specializing in drug discovery and preclinical research, with operations in France, Canada, and the United States.
This article provides an overview of the company’s preclinical contract research services and its extensive portfolio of disease models supporting translational drug development.

Features of Oncodesign Services’ Contract Services for Non-Clinical Studies

Expertise in Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism (DMPK/ADME)

Oncodesign Services’ DMPK division conductscomprehensive studies in pharmacokinetics and drug metabolism (DMPK/ADME)for novel therapeutic candidates. Leveraging extensive experience across a wide range of drug discovery programs, the company delivers tailored and scientifically robust ADME/DMPK solutions to support informed decision-making throughout preclinical development.

Advanced Pharmacological and Molecular Imaging Capabilities

The company offersadvanced multimodal and nuclear imaging technologies, enabling detailed visualization of drug biodistribution, pharmacological efficacy, and biomarker responses in vivo. In addition, Oncodesign Services has strong expertise in molecular radiotherapy research, including radiolabeling of small molecules and antibodies, providing valuable insights into therapeutic targeting and mechanism of action.

In-house ABSL-2 and ABSL-3 Facilities

To address emerging infectious diseases that pose global public health threats, Oncodesign Services provides dedicated platforms supporting the development of therapeutic and preventive strategies.The company operates in-house ABSL-2 and ABSL-3 (Animal Biosafety Level) facilities, allowing studies involving high-risk pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2 and Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Animal welfare is a core priority, and all in vivo studies are conducted under strict oversight in accordance with international ethical and regulatory guidelines.

Examples of Disease Models Available at Oncodesign Services

Oncodesign Services maintains a diverse portfolio of disease models designed to closely reflect human pathophysiology.
In the field of autoimmune disease research, the company offers both industry-standard and specialized models, including:
- Collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) models in mice and rats
- Acute experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) / multiple sclerosis (MS) models in mice
- Relapsing–remitting EAE / MS models in mice

In addition, the company provides preclinical CRO services focused on inflammatory liver diseases, including rodent models of hepatic inflammation.

Oncodesign Services Non-Clinical Case Study

Liver Fibrosis Research

The carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver fibrosis model is a widely established preclinical model. Repeated administration of CCl₄ to young mice typically induces liver fibrosis within approximately six weeks.

This model is well suited for evaluating therapeutic approaches targeting collagen deposition and regulation of matrix metalloproteinase expression. ALK5 inhibition, a well-characterized anti-fibrotic mechanism known to reduce collagen induction, is commonly used as a reference compound in these studies.

Reference: Oncodesign Services official website (https://www.oncodesign-services.com/inflammation/liver-models/)

Oncodesign Services Company Information

Founded in 1955, Oncodesign Services isa global CRO focused on drug discovery and preclinical research.With operations in France, Canada, and the United States, the company supports the development of innovative therapies across oncology, immunology, inflammatory diseases, and infectious diseases.

Address20 rue de la Fleuriée, 21000 Dijon, France
Tel+33 (0)3 80 78 82 60
Websitehttps://www.oncodesign-services.com/

3 Recommended Contract Research Organizations
for Non-Clinical Studies
— by Target goal and Expertise

In non-clinical development, the choice of contract research organization shapes the quality of the data and the time it takes to reach the next decision. Below, three CROs are introduced by the type of study they support: pharmacology (efficacy) studies, safety studies, and pharmacokinetic (PK/PD) studies. Each summary describes the services the company offers so that you can match a provider to your target and development objective.

Pharmacology (Efficacy) StudiesDisease-Relevant Models for
Translational Drug Evaluation
SMC Laboratories, Inc.
Reference: SMC Laboratories, Inc. official website (https://www.smccro-lab.com/)

SMC Laboratories, Inc.

SMC Laboratories is a specialized non-clinical CRO focused on in vivo pharmacology and efficacy studies using disease-relevant animal models, particularly in fibrosis, inflammation, metabolic diseases, and oncology.

Areas of Expertise
Disease-Relevant Model Portfolio

SMC Laboratories offers models covering the liver, lung, kidney, intestine, and oncology. Its portfolio includes the proprietary STAM™ model for MASH, fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Study Design Based on Target Biology

Study plans are developed around the target biology, mechanism of action, disease stage, and development objective. Pharmacological endpoints can be combined with histopathology, biomarkers, and disease-specific readouts.

Support from Target Validation to Proof of Concept

With experience from more than 1,000 studies for clients in 30 countries, SMC Laboratories supports programs from target validation and candidate selection through in vivo proof-of-concept studies.

Safety StudiesComprehensive Safety Assessment for
Preclinical Development
Charles River Laboratories
Reference: Charles River Laboratories official website (https://www.criver.com/)

Charles River Laboratories

Charles River provides non-clinical toxicology and safety assessment services for programs ranging from exploratory safety studies to IND-enabling development.

Areas of Expertise
General Toxicology Across Study Designs

Services include single- and repeat-dose toxicology, dose-range finding, and general toxicology studies across multiple species and administration routes.

Non-GLP and GLP Study Support

Charles River supports both non-GLP and GLP studies, allowing sponsors to progress from early safety characterization to studies intended for regulatory submissions.

Integrated IND-Enabling Safety Assessment

Toxicology studies can be integrated with toxicokinetics, clinical pathology, histopathology, and safety pharmacology to support interpretation and IND-enabling safety packages.

Pharmacokinetic (PK/PD) StudiesConnecting Drug Exposure with
Pharmacological Response
Inotiv
Reference: Inotiv official website (https://www.inotiv.com/)

Inotiv

Inotiv provides integrated PK/PD, DMPK, and bioanalytical services to characterize drug exposure and its relationship with pharmacological response.

Areas of Expertise
Pharmacokinetic Characterization

PK studies characterize exposure, half-life, clearance, and other pharmacokinetic parameters needed to understand how a candidate behaves in the selected model.

Exposure–Response Evaluation

Pharmacokinetic data can be combined with pharmacodynamic endpoints and bioanalysis to evaluate the relationship between drug exposure and pharmacological response.

Integrated DMPK and Development Support

Integrated DMPK, pharmacology, and safety information supports candidate comparison, dose selection, dosing-frequency optimization, and decisions about subsequent preclinical development.

By Therapeutic Area
Disease Animal Models
and Reviews
Proven Capability, Expertise and Track Record
Top 3 Non-Clinical CRO Services