Blending science and technology, the innovation makes toxicity testing faster, fairer, and more reliable.
In a pioneering step for laboratory automation and ethical toxicology, a team of Indian researchers has developed an Automated Analysis Device for the Isolated Chicken Eye (ICE) Test, offering a faster, more accurate, and humane alternative for assessing ocular irritation. The innovation, developed under SwaLife Biotech Pvt. Ltd., brings digital intelligence and algorithmic precision to a globally recognized model for eye irritation testing.
The project was conceptualized and led by Dr. Pravin Dattatraya Badhe and Dr. Ashwini Pravin Badhe, founders and directors of SwaLife Biotech. They were joined by collaborators Dr. Trupti Deshpande, Dr. Vaishali Amar Patil, and Prof. Prashant Damodar Mali, all experts in pharmacology, toxicology, and life sciences. Together, this multidisciplinary team envisioned a solution that merges biological testing expertise with digital automation, setting new benchmarks in non-animal research innovation.
The innovation has now been officially published and recognized as a registered design, marking a key milestone in SwaLife Biotech’s journey toward developing advanced, ethical testing technologies.
A Smarter Way to Conduct Ocular Toxicity Testing
The Isolated Chicken Eye (ICE) Test is a trusted non-animal method for assessing eye irritation caused by chemicals or formulations. Traditionally, it depends on manual observation of corneal opacity, swelling, and surface damage a process that can be slow and subjective.
SwaLife Biotech’s Automated ICE Test Analysis Tool transforms this workflow with a web-based, algorithm-driven system. Researchers can upload corneal images, which the software analyzes to measure optical density, surface changes, and tissue damage with precision. It also allows batch processing, enabling faster, more consistent, and reproducible results across multiple samples.
Innovation Rooted in Science and Ethics
The innovators behind this development share a common goal: to reduce human bias and promote data-driven, ethical toxicology.
By digitizing the ICE Test, the system supports the 3Rs principle Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement which guides global efforts to minimize animal testing. The tool aligns with OECD Test No. 438 guidelines, making it compatible with internationally accepted toxicological frameworks.
With its intuitive interface and analytical precision, this innovation provides laboratories, academic institutes, and regulatory research centers with a powerful tool for non-animal, evidence-based toxicity testing.
Advantages of the Automated ICE Test Analysis Tool
This innovation brings several key benefits it delivers objective, bias-free analysis, processes multiple samples quickly, and ensures consistent, quantifiable results that meet OECD standards. It also improves efficiency, transparency, and promotes ethical, non-animal testing. Together, these strengths make it a practical and reliable tool for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and chemical labs focused on safe and responsible research.
SwaLife Biotech: Fusing Technology and Life Sciences
Based in Pune, SwaLife Biotech Pvt. Ltd. is a growing Indian biotechnology company focused on science-backed, technology-driven health and research solutions. Its HealthTech division develops AI-assisted and automated systems that improve accuracy and efficiency in biological research.
Through innovations like the ICE Test Analysis Tool, SwaLife Biotech continues to merge biotechnology, digital analytics, and ethics for smarter and more sustainable science. Its PureHerbs Capsules line featuring Tulsi, Neem, Turmeric, Moringa, and Wheatgrass reflects the company’s holistic vision of blending traditional wisdom with modern innovation.
A Step Toward Responsible Science
The Automated ICE Test Analysis Tool exemplifies how Indian innovators are leading a new era of ethical and intelligent biotechnology. By bringing automation and compassion into the same framework, Dr. Pravin Badhe and his team have set a new benchmark in non-animal, high-precision testing technologies.
As global research moves toward sustainability and transparency, SwaLife Biotech’s innovation stands as a testament to how technology, empathy, and scientific rigor can coexist reshaping the future of responsible toxicology and modern laboratory science.
Call to Action
To learn more, visit https://swalifebiotech.com or email info@swalifebiotech.com
