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Key and Unique Fe​​atures

Teledyne LABS has been a leading innovator in diffusion cell testing to determine skin flux since its Hanson brand first introduced the definitive Model A contained in USP <1724>. Our decades of experience in diffusion cell testing to determine skin flux have led to an even higher level of precision and efficiency with the Phoenix Flex diffusion tester.

Precision engineered for advanced IVPT testing, the Phoenix Flex delivers unmatched accuracy and ease of use, with features designed to support compliant/streamlined workflows with dependable data integrity.

  • Automated tilting of cell blocks thoroughly eliminates bubbles in the receptor media to avoid distortion of diffusion studies
  • 21 CFR Part 11 compliance
  • Complies with USP <1724>, EMA guideline for cutaneous products, OECD 428
  • Full media replacement meets regulations
  • Compact, space-saving design accommodates limited bench space
  • No water-circulation pumps
  • Dry-heat blocks provide temperature stability, cell-to-cell consistency and reproducibility
  • Infrared temperature block measures initial membrane temperature to ensure membrane equilibration before loading the sample
  • Real-time temperature measurement of receptor media for temperature monitoring, recording and printout
  • Machined PTFE threaded cell top for precise orifice, easy skin membrane mounting and application of dosage form
  • 10 or 13mL receiver chamber capacity
  • Serial number on cells, cell tops and mixers to offer traceability and authenticity
  • Clean-in-place: Automatic cell filling, washing, and programable rinse volume eliminates cross-contamination or carry-over challenges  
  • Postscript network printer connectivity
  • Skin integrity data recorded in the software and generated in reports
  • Automatic undosed cell sample collection
  • Staggered test-starts improve accuracy and repeatability
  • Control up to 24 cells with a single computer​​
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A History of IVPT Inno​​vation

Teledyne LABS in vitro permeation testing​ (IVPT) instruments are built on decades of performance in pharmaceutical innovation in the testing of topical and transdermal drug delivery and other substances that permeate the skin.

It has been over 25 years since Teledyne LABS released our groundbreaking Microette model of diffusion testers. The Microette, a brainchild of our Hanson brand, was the first automated Vertical Diffusion Cell (VDC) available anywhere. 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."

Our rich history of robust, precise, easy-to-use IVPT products actually began with our modified Franz Cell, patented in 1980. We have since eclipsed that milestone with our automated, computer-controlled Phoenix Flex dry‐heat system, built on the solid foundation established by the Microette and modified Franz Cell.

Today, Teledyne LABS is well-known and well-respected worldwide, appreciated not only for the quality of our IVPT and IVRT 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 DB-Max or the Phoenix Flex, progeny of the Microette. The Phoenix Flex 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. ​​

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Frequently asked que​​stions

What is diffusion testi​​ng?

Diffusion testing determines the rate at which transdermal drug delivery and other topical and transdermal substances transfer through the skin into the system (skin flux). You'll find more detailed information on diffusion testing and the full line of Teledyne LABS diffusion testers here.

What is In Vitro Permeation Testin​g (IVPT)?

In Vitro Permeation Testing (IVPT) is a critical tool for understanding drug delivery and permeation of other topicals into the various layers of skin as part of the optimization, comparison and selection process of formulations.

IVPT can be used for drug bioequivalence of topical generics as the EMA/FDA-approved biowaiver alternative to costly clinical studies.

IVPT is also used for safety assessments of chemicals, agrochemicals and cosmetic products. The purpose of IVPT is to characterize the rate and extent of transdermal or topical formulations.

Is IVPT testi​ng regulated?

Yes. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration and other governments entities around the world provide guidance and set regulations for drug tests and approval. For example, see In Vitro Permeation Test (IVPT) Studies for Topical Drug Products Submitted in ANDAs (abbreviated new drug applications). Also, USP 1724, the EMA guideline on quality and equivalence of locally applied, locally acting cutaneous products, and Teledyne LABS' The new EMA guideline for cutaneous products: changes from the 2018 draft guideline.​​