New technique improves cardiac safety drug testing

Researchers at Chiba University have developed a non-invasive electrical impedance technique for real-time drug testing on hERG ion channels, critical for cardiac safety. The new PCB sensor integrates electrical impedance tomography and extracellular voltage activation, allowing for accurate monitoring of ion flow changes. Testing with the antiarrhythmic drug E-4031 showed a half-maximal inhibitory concentration of 2.7 nM, correlating closely with traditional methods. The study was published on May 23, 2024.