ADVANCED SERVICES

As well as studies guaranteed by GLPs, at GAIKER we also offer a wide range of Advanced Services. We have methodologies for rapid detection, fraud identification of raw materials and non-conformity in the finished product. We use molecular biology techniques (PCR, quantitative RT-PCR), cell cultures and the most advanced instrumental techniques: gas chromatography, gases/gas masses joined to "sniffing" detectors, liquid chromatography HPLC, HPLC-masses, FPLC, TLC, Infrared (FT-IR) and ICP. We also have containment laboratories with risk level 2 (P2) and level 3 (P3).

Authentication of raw materials

• Authentication of raw materials and processed product
• Detection and quantification of transgenic material in raw materials and processed product
• Detection and quantification of animal and vegetable species in processed products

ADME "in vitro" studies (GLPs)

• Active/passive Transport Permeability.
• Metabolism: in cells and microsomes.

Effectiveness of ingredients/formulations (GLPs)

• Evaluation of physiological effects specific to each organ, using cell cultures and the combined application of subtraction genomic libraries, RT-PCR.
• Anti-inflammatory effects.
• Anti-ageing effect: free radicals, based on DNA integrity studies, the sequence of amino acids in protein, anti-elastase activity.
• Photoprotection, evaluated on human skin cultures.
• Skin protection - Antipollution effects.
• Restoration-healing effects: Collagen.
• Stimulation of cell growth.
• Effects on pigmentation.

Evaluation of Health Risks

• Determining mutagenic profiles: Gene mutation in bacteria and mammalian cells, cytogenetic tests.
• Studies on toxicological profiles: cytotoxicity, skin and eye irritation, and phototoxicity.
• Biocompatibility studies of materials for sanitary use.
• Comparative studies of the toxicity level of raw materials in order to select the most suitable one for the formulation of a product.
• Studies on the toxicity levels of products/raw materials on primary culture of cells.
• Determining the most suitable range of "in vitro" tests to preliminary determine the toxicity level of products.

Approval of analytic methods

Characterization

• Microbiological Characterization
  • Detection, quantification and detection of the contamination source.
  • Detection and quantification of pathogens.
  • Determination of the purity and feasibility of initiator cultures.
• Biochemical Characterization
  • Nutritional value, vitamins, amino acids, fats, oils and fatty acids, sugars, sweeteners, peptides and proteins.
  • Characterization of the activity and aptitude of enzymatic preparations.
• Physical-chemical Characterization
  • Analysis of concentration, purity, analysis of traces of solvents.
  • Detection of contaminants in raw materials and processes, non- conformities: pesticides, chlorinated compounds, fats, solvents, hydrocarbons, analysis of metals (ICP), alpha-toxins and sulphonamides.