A foundation of firsts in auto​​mated diffusion cell testing

Hanson Research, now a Teledyne LABS brand, released its groundbreaking Microette model of diffusion testers in 2000. Our rich history of robust, precise, easy to use products actually began with our modified Franz cell, patented in 1980.

The Microette, a brainchild of our Hanson brand, was the first automated Vertical Diffusion Cell (VDC) System available anywhere. We have since eclipsed that milestone with our automated, computer-controlled Phoenix™ RDS d ry‐heat system, built on the Microette's solid foundation.

Hanson's innovative VDC was developed in collaboration with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and signified a tremendous stride within the scientific community. It was later adopted into USP <1724> as the “Model A." Hanson now shares decades of performance in pharmaceutical innovation in topical and transdermal drug delivery testing with Teledyne LABS. 

Today, we're well-known and well-respected worldwide, appreciated not only for the quality of our instruments, but also for our exceptional customer care and technical expertise. We are backed by 45 years of experience to fully support you before, during and long after you receive your new diffusion cell tester.

​As you conduct due diligence in choosing a diffusion cell tester, consider our compact Phoenix DB-6 six‐cell manual sampling system, or the Phoenix RDS automated system, progeny of the Microette. The Phoenix RDS is controlled by Teledyne LABS' Diffusion Master™ software, allowing you to independently operate up to two RDS systems (24 vertical diffusion cells) at once from a single computer workstation.

Start creating your own innovative and productive history with Teledyne LABS by contacting us right away. We make diffusion cell testing faster, easier, and more economical. To begin your journey, just click ​here.​​

Pharmaceutical Diffusion​​ Testing: Principles & Applications

Why Diffusion Cell Testing Matters for Drug D​​evelopment

Diffusion cell testing measures how pharmaceutical compounds pass through biological barriers like skin or synthetic membranes. This analytical method provides information about drug permeation rates, release profiles, and bioavailability for topical and transdermal formulations.

Pharmaceutical laboratories use diffusion testing to evaluate drug delivery performance and support regulatory submissions for topical medications. Phoenix systems from Teledyne LABS provide the precision and automation needed for reliable diffusion testing in pharmaceutical research and development.

Principles of Pharmaceutical ​​Diffusion Testing

Diffusion cell testing uses a two-compartment system. The donor compartment contains the test formulation and the receptor compartment collects permeated compounds. The test membrane separates compartments and simulates the biological barrier. Phoenix systems include advanced mixing technology that achieves complete receptor media homogenization within seconds.

When Your Lab Needs Diffu​​sion Testing

Pharmaceutical laboratories conduct diffusion cell testing for several applications:

• Evaluating transdermal patch release rates and performance

• Assessing topical cream and ointment permeation profiles

• Supporting regulatory submissions for dermal absorption studies

• Conducting bioequivalence testing for generic topical formulations

• Optimizing formulation development for improved drug delivery 

Phoenix systems provide the precise temperature control and consistent sampling protocols these applications require.

Diffusion Testing v​s. Other Pharmaceutical Analysis Methods

Diffusion cell testing provides information about lag time, steady-state flux, and cumulative permeation that other methods cannot capture effectively. Phoenix systems enhance these capabilities through precise temperature control, automated sampling, and advanced mixing technology. Teledyne LABS' Phoenix systems deliver the reproducibility and precision required for pharmaceutical testing.

Where Teledyne LABS​ Diffusion Systems Make a Difference

Phoenix diffusion systems serve industries requiring precise permeation analysis and controlled testing conditions. Automated sampling, temperature control, and reliable data collection address specific application challenges. 

• Drug Delivery: Pharmaceutical companies evaluate topical and transdermal formulations to measure drug release rates for regulatory submissions. Phoenix systems provide precision for bioequivalence studies and compliance with most regulatory bodies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and European Medicines Agency.

• Cosmetic and Personal Care Testing: Cosmetic manufacturers analyze skin care products and formulations to understand ingredient penetration and optimize absorption characteristics. Phoenix systems reduce result variability through consistent testing conditions.

• Agrochemicals: Customers in this field concentrate on crop protection and plant health; their primary goal is the optimization and selection of formulations.
  

How Teledyne Diffus​​​ion Testing Systems Benefit Your Laboratory

Precision Engineered for Con​​sistent R​​esults

Our diffusion systems feature advanced mixing technology that achieves complete receptor media homogenization within seconds. Automated temperature control and sampling protocols ensure consistent testing conditions and reproducible results. All Phoenix systems are designed to meet GLP requirements and support regulatory compliance for pharmaceutical testing applications.

Technical Support f​or In​​dustry Experts

Teledyne LABS application specialists provide technical support and method development guidance based on decades of experience in pharmaceutical diffusion testing. Our team helps laboratories optimize testing protocols, troubleshoot methods, and select appropriate system configurations for specific applications.

Flexible System​s for You​​r Testing Needs

Phoenix systems include the compact DB-6 six-cell manual system and the fully automated RDS system, capable of handling 24 cells simultaneously. Both offer flexible configurations and allow you to choose between different receptor volumes, dosage volumes, membrane exposed areas, accommodate different dosage forms and types of membranes. Automated sampling and data collection reduces hands-on time while improving throughput and consistency.

Compliance-Ready ​Solu​​tions

Phoenix diffusion systems support regulatory submissions through validated methods and documentation. The systems are designed to meet FDA and international guidelines for diffusion testing in pharmaceutical development. Technical support includes method validation assistance and guidance on regulatory requirements for diffusion testing applications.

Next Steps for Better Diffus​​i​​on Testing

Selecting the appropriate Phoenix diffusion system depends on your testing volume, automation requirements, and specific applications. Contact Teledyne LABS to discuss how Phoenix diffusion systems can improve your pharmaceutical testing capabilities and support your development programs.​

​Frequently Asked Questions​​

What is the ​​difference between IVRT and IVPT?

• IVRT (In Vitro Release Testing) measures the rate of drug release from a topical formulation using synthetic membranes.
• IVPT (In Vitro Permeation Testing) assesses the rate and extent of drug permeation through biological membranes like human or animal skin.

What is diffusion in drug r​elease?

Diffusion is the rate at which a topic al medication transfers through the skin into the system. 

Why are IVRT and IVPT impo​​​rtant for regulatory approval?

IVRT and IVPT support bioequivalence, quality control, and formulation development. IVRT is often required for ANDA submissions and post-marketing changes.

What i​​s a dru​​g re lease profile in diffusion testing?

A drug release profile in diffusion testing refers to the graphical representation of how a drug diffuses out of a formulation over time. It is a critical output of In Vitro Release Testing (IVRT) and helps evaluate the performance, consistency, and quality of topical or transdermal products. 

How much time is involved in ​​IVRT and IVPT testing?

Typically, IVRT takes 4-6 hours, while IVPT takes between 24 to over 96 hours, depending on product.​