Design in vivo

Poly(orthoesters) represent the first class of bioerodible polymers designed specifically for dmg deUvery appHcations (52). In vivo degradation of the polyorthoester shown, known as the Al amer degradation, yields 1,4-cydohexanedimethanol and 4-hydroxybutyric acid as hydrolysis products (53). 

Types of Studies. Studies may be conducted in five specimens (in vivo) or in test tubes in vitro). Studies may be carried out by single exposure or by repeated exposure over variable periods of time. The design of any one study, including the monitoring procedures, is determined by a large number of factors, including the nature of the test material, route of exposure, known or suspected toxicity, practical use of the material, and the reason for conducting the study. 

To avoid confusion, several researchers have incorporated therapeutic intention into the definition of controlled release (4—7). Thus, controUed-release pharmaceuticals release dmgs in vivo according to a predictable, therapeutically rational, programmed rate to achieve the optimal dmg concentration in the minimal time (4). Specification by release rate complements specification by quantity jointly considered, they fix the duration of dmg release. Therefore, the dmg s duration of action can become a design property of a controlled release dosage form rather than an inherent pharmacokinetic property of the dmg molecule. 

Since in vivo tests in exposed human populations would involve concomitant exposure to other toxicants, it would be difficult to assess the genotoxic potential of methyl parathion alone. Therefore, additional well-designed in vitro studies using human cell lines are needed to determine the effects of methyl parathion on various genotoxic parameters (e.g., sister chromatid exchange, chromosomal aberrations, unscheduled DNA synthesis). 

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