This morning, we were paired with Akeem of the IVRT–in-vitro release testing–department. Although the name sounds similar to the IVPT department we shadowed yesterday, the two groups researh different aspects of topical drug delivery. While IVPT focuses on how the drug distributes itself through the skin’s layers, such as the epidermis and dermis, the IVRT determines whether or not the drug can penetrate the skin. The IVRT department utilizes semipermeable membrane paper, which is far easier to clean than skin–a potential biohazard. I felt one of the membrane paper slides, which was labelled to have miniscule pores of only 45 micrometers. It looked and felt like a regular slip of paper.
Later, we were introduced to Craig, the lab manager for the IVRT deparment. He lectured us on his previous experiences with working around oral medications comapared to his current time at Tergus with topical delivery methods. While oral pills have a predictable release time, topical formulations don’t, which according to Craig made his job much more interesting. After a short time, he had to attend a meeting–everyone at the lab is always hard at work!–and Akeem demonstrated a setup of the membrane testing for us.
Each rack in the room holds a multitude (18 to be specific) of glass vials filled with a medium. For safety purposes, Akeem utilized water. Then, a stir bar is placed on the bottom to simulate blood flow. A membrane it used to cap the vial, and the topical is applied to the membrane in a concentric area. After a certain time period, the solution is extracted from the vial. Hopefully, testing will reveal that the topical has penetrated the membrane, thus rendering the cream, ointment, or gel effective.
Tomorow is our last day, and I am very much looking forward to working again with the great people at Tergus. 
