High-throughput assay systems

Classical cell-based assays (end-point readout) 

Classical cell-based assays with end-point readouts remain the most popular choice for HTS. We specialise in a variety of assay types, including reporter gene assays, second messenger assays, protein degradation assays, protein–protein interaction assays, secretion assays and biomarker assays. Our advanced readout technologies include TR-FRET/HTRF, luminescence, fluorescence intensity and mass spectrometry. We utilise state-of-the-art multimode readers such as BMG Pherastar, PerkinElmer Viewlux and RapiFlex MS MALDI (Bruker) to enable precise and reliable results. Overview of assay types, readout technologies and multimode readers:

Cell-based assay types

• Reporter gene assays, including all types of luciferases, beta-lactamase, beta-galactosidase, GFP or related fluorescent proteins 
• Second messenger assays (IP-1, cAMP) 
• Protein degradation assays (i.e., Hi-Bit, GFP) 
• Secretion assays (i.e., cytokines) 
• Biomarker assays (e.g., phospho-proteins). 

Readout technologies 

• Time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET/HTRF) 
• Luminescence 
• Fluorescence intensity 
• Mass-spectrometry readouts (native substrates and products). 
  
  

Multimode readers: BMG Pherastar, Perkin Elmer Viewlux, RapiFlex MS MALDI (Bruker) 

Kinetic readouts 

For challenging target classes, such as ion channels (e.g., potassium channels) or GPCRs, we offer high-resolution kinetic assays. We also analyse calcium dynamics in iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes or neurons. Our capabilities include full-deck library screens and regular compound testing. We use the industry-standard FLIPR platform, with one FLIPR Tetra and one FLIPR Penta, and employ 384- or 1,536-well pipettor heads for high-throughput applications. Additionally, we provide multidimensional time-lapse imaging via high-content analysis to better understand cell-drug response dynamics, including cell-cycle assays, autophagy assays, multi-target translocation assays, the determination of degradation kinetics or Ca²⁺ flux in sub-cellular compartments. 

High-content analysis (HCA) 

HCA is increasingly vital for the pharmaceutical industry to understand spatial and temporal phenotypic changes in cells. At Nuvisan, we consider HCA a crucial part of early drug discovery and have dedicated an entire platform to it. Our advanced high-content imaging and analysis capabilities have been successfully used to develop a wide range of assays and screen compound libraries of up to 4.5 million compounds.