sales@nebiolab.com Follow Up On Email
(203) 361 3780 Follow Up On Phone
NorthEast BioLab Agile Bioanalytical Services CRO
  • Expertise
    • All Expertise
    • Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS)
      • Mass Spectrometry Services
      • HPLC Lab Services
    • Meso Scale Discovery Assay
    • ELISA Assay
      • Luminex Multiplex Assay
    • qPCR Analysis, dPCR Assay
    • LI-COR Odyssey (WB, ICW)
  • Services
    • All Services
    • Pharmacokinetics (PK) Study
      • Toxicology (Tox) Study
      • Dose Formulation Analysis
      • PK PD Analysis
      • Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK)
      • ADME Studies
      • Bioequivalence and Bioavailability Studies
    • ADA Assay, Neutralizing Antibody Assay
    • Cytokine Analysis, Biomarker Assay
      • Biomarker Assay List
    • Cell-Based Assays
      • Mechanism of Action (MOA) Studies
      • Cytotoxicity Assay
      • Biochemical Assay
    • Bioanalytical Assay Validation
  • Solutions
    • All Solutions
    • Method Development, Validation, And Transfer
      • Method Validation
      • Method Development
      • Method Transfer
    • Bioanalysis
    • GLP Laboratory
    • Clinical CRO
      • Clinical Trial Sample Management and Storage
    • Preclinical CRO
    • Analytical Testing
      • Analytical Quantitation
    • Non-GLP Testing
      • Discovery and Research
      • Cosmetic Testing
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Overview
    • Why Us?
    • Values
    • Leadership
    • Process
    • Quality and Compliance
    • Facility and Equipment
    • Therapeutic Areas
    • Partners
    • Careers
      • GLP Quality Assurance Manager, Bioanalytical Lab
      • Sr. Scientist, ELISA Immunoassay Bioanalysis
      • Sr. Scientist, LC-MS/MS Bioanalysis – Hamden, CT, USA
      • Associate Scientist, Central Laboratory Services
      • Sr. Scientist – Pharmacokinetics (PK) Studies
      • Content Manager, Scientific and Regulatory Writing
  • Resources
    • Learning Center
    • Blog
    • Case Study
    • Video Brochures
    • News and Events
    • Testimonials
    • Contact Us
  • Request Quote
NorthEast Biolab Agile Bioanalytical Services CRO Request Quote

Expertise

  • All Expertise
    • Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS)
      • Mass Spectrometry Services
      • HPLC Lab Services
    • Meso Scale Discovery Assay
      • ELISA Assay
        • Luminex Multiplex Assay
      • qPCR Analysis, dPCR Assay
        • LI-COR Odyssey (WB, ICW)

          Services

          • All Services
            • Pharmacokinetics (PK) Study
              • Toxicology (Tox) Study
              • Dose Formulation Analysis
              • PK PD Analysis
              • Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK)
              • ADME Studies
              • Bioequivalence and Bioavailability Studies
            • ADA Assay, Neutralizing Antibody Assay
              • Cytokine Analysis, Biomarker Assay
                • Biomarker Assay List
              • Cell-Based Assays
                • Mechanism of Action (MOA) Studies
                • Cytotoxicity Assay
                • Biochemical Assay
              • Bioanalytical Assay Validation

                Solutions

                • All Solutions
                  • Method Development, Validation, And Transfer
                    • Method Validation
                    • Method Development
                    • Method Transfer
                  • Bioanalysis
                    • GLP Laboratory
                      • Clinical CRO
                        • Clinical Trial Sample Management and Storage
                      • Preclinical CRO
                        • Analytical Testing
                          • Analytical Quantitation
                        • Non-GLP Testing
                          • Discovery and Research
                          • Cosmetic Testing

                        About Us

                        • About Us
                          • Overview
                            • Why Us?
                              • Values
                                • Leadership
                                  • Process
                                    • Quality and Compliance
                                      • Facility and Equipment
                                        • Therapeutic Areas
                                          • Partners
                                            • Careers
                                              • GLP Quality Assurance Manager, Bioanalytical Lab
                                              • Sr. Scientist, ELISA Immunoassay Bioanalysis
                                              • Sr. Scientist, LC-MS/MS Bioanalysis – Hamden, CT, USA
                                              • Associate Scientist, Central Laboratory Services
                                              • Sr. Scientist - Pharmacokinetics (PK) Studies
                                              • Content Manager, Scientific and Regulatory Writing

                                            Resources

                                            • Learning Center
                                              • Blog
                                                • Case Study
                                                  • Video Brochures
                                                    • News and Events
                                                      • Testimonials
                                                        • Contact Us

                                                          Request Quote

                                                            Contact Us

                                                            • Home
                                                            • MSD: ECL Multiplex Assays For Cytokine ELISA, Immunogenicity, And PK

                                                            Table of Content

                                                            • Meso Scale Discovery ECL Assay Technology
                                                            • ECL Techniques
                                                            • Multiplexing Using The ECL Platform
                                                            • Assay Format Development Using ECL Plates
                                                            • Meso Scale Discovery Immunoassay Plates
                                                            • ECL Assay Plate Coating During Method Development
                                                            • ECL Assay Plate Coating For Non-Antibody Molecules
                                                            • Steps To Follow For Detailed Sandwich Immunoassay Protocol With ECL Plate Coating
                                                            • ECL Assay: Plate Storage And Expiration
                                                            • Steps To Follow For Typical ECL Plates Layouts For Assay Optimization
                                                            • Meso Scale Discovery ECL Assay: Services & Applications
                                                            • V-PLEX
                                                            • U-PLEX
                                                            • U-PLEX Metabolic Group 1 Assays
                                                            • U-PLEX Metabolic Combinations
                                                            • S-PLEX
                                                            • R-PLEX
                                                            • T-PLEX
                                                            • Meso Scale Discovery ECL Assay Development Tools
                                                            • Meso Scale Discovery ECL Instruments & Software

                                                            Meso Scale Discovery: ECL Multiplex Assays For Cytokine ELISA, Immunogenicity, & PK

                                                            By Abhay Pandey, MBA
                                                            Share this article on:
                                                            Reading Time: 15 minutes

                                                            MSD: ECL Multiplex Assays For Cytokine ELISA, Immunogenicity, And PK

                                                            Meso Scale Discovery Electrochemiluminescence Assays (ECL assays) are an excellent singleplex and multiplex platform for assessing target analytes in complex biological samples. The platform offers ultra-low analyte detection, provides a broader dynamic range, and handles complex plasma, urine, cell lysate, and tissue homogenate matrices while using minimal sample volume. Thus, ECL assays offer one of the best commercially available immunoassay platforms for Cytokine ELISA, pharmacokinetics, immunogenicity testing. Here, ultra sensitivity multiplex assays allow measuring of multiple low abundance cytokines or biomarkers simultaneously and a broader dynamic range helps precisely estimate the concentration of these analytes with minimal dilutions. Similarly, Meso Scale Discovery ECL Assays offer an excellent platform for high sensitivity pharmacokinetics and immunogenicity assessments. Therefore, our veteran scientists at NorthEast BioLab rely on the Meso Scale Discovery ECL Assays for your crucial cytokine ELISA multiplex assays, Immunogenicity (ADA and nAb), and Pharmacokinetics (PK) applications when feasible.

                                                            Good Laboratory Practice for Nonclinical Laboratory StudiesFood and Drug Administration (FDA)

                                                            Meso Scale Discovery ECL Assay Technology

                                                            ECL technology is a proprietary platform from Meso Scale Discovery to measure large molecules such as proteins, antibodies, nucleotides, etc. in complex biological matrices. ECL or MSD technology can profile multiple analytes, such as chemokines and cytokines, to aid drug development and research programs. ECL Assays combine electrochemiluminescence and multi-array technology to provide high sensitivity immunoassay multiplexing capacities. That said, ECL technology still leverages an assay protocol and workflow similar to ELISA with the following main steps:

                                                            • Coating microplates with a capture reagent
                                                            • Blocking all plate wells to minimize nonspecific binding
                                                            • Adding samples and calibrators
                                                            • Adding detection reagent
                                                            • Reading the microplate
                                                            • Analyzing results

                                                            1. Electrochemiluminescence Technology

                                                            Electrochemiluminescent assays provide a broader dynamic range, enhanced sensitivity, and feasibility. ECL technology can generate reliable and high-quality results in numerous sample matrices such as serum, plasma, and saliva, making it a robust tool for all bioanalysis.

                                                            Standard Plates

                                                            Figure 1. A top-view image of a well in the MSD MULTI-ARRAY plate depicting the electrochemiluminescence reaction and the working electrode, counter electrode, and dielectric.

                                                            2. Multi-array Technology

                                                            Multi-array technology integrates ECL assays and multiple arrays to facilitate faster and highly dense biological assays. When applied to ECL multi-spot plates, multi-array technology can precisely quantify numerous analytes in a single assay volume. Hence, fewer samples and less time are required for bioanalysis.

                                                            ECL Platform
                                                            ECL Platform
                                                            ECL Platform
                                                            ECL Platform
                                                            ECL Platform
                                                            ECL Platform

                                                            Figure 2. MSD plates with different multiplexing wells and single wells.

                                                            Advantages of ECL Over Traditional ELISA

                                                            Meso Scale Discovery ECL analysis has several advantages over traditional ELISA assays. Meso Scale Discovery designs numerous assay types for all pharmacological and biomedical applications. Moreover, MSD immunoassay technology produces faster and superior results while maintaining simpler assay workflows.

                                                            Benefits of Meso Scale Discovery or ECL assays over ELISA.

                                                            Feature MSD ECL Assays ELISA
                                                            Low Sample volume 10-25 μL for up to 10 analytes 50-100 μL for a single analyte
                                                            Crude sample analysis No preparation Requires preparation
                                                            Multiplex Assays Up to 10 analytes No
                                                            Large Dynamic Range 3-5 logs 1-2 logs
                                                            High signal-to-noise ratio Yes No
                                                            Reduced matrix effects Yes No
                                                            Faster Read Time Yes No
                                                            Fewer Washing steps 1-3 Multiple
                                                            Simpler Assay Protocols Yes No
                                                            Flexible Panels Yes No
                                                            Higher Throughput Yes No
                                                            Robust Drug Tolerance (ADA) Yes No
                                                            Low Instrument maintenance Annual/Semi-Annual Daily
                                                            Back to Top

                                                            ECL Techniques

                                                            Similar to ELISA assays, ECL also has many assay variations, including sandwich, bridging, direct, and indirect assays. Let us understand each of these assay types.

                                                            Sandwich ECL assay

                                                            In sandwich ECL assay, the microplates are coated with a capture antibody. This step is followed by adding the antigen and a secondary antibody conjugated to an enzyme. The conjugated complex gives a chemiluminescent indication in the presence of the substrate. The intensity of the ECL signal is directly related to the amount of antigen present in the sample.

                                                            Sandwich MSD

                                                            Figure 3. Sandwich ELISA versus Sandwich MSD.

                                                            Direct ECL assay

                                                            In these ECL or Meso Scale assay formats, the antigen binds to the electrode and the primary antibody conjugated with the Ru metal ion detects the presence of an antigen.

                                                            Direct MSD

                                                            Figure 4. Diagrams of direct and indirect MSD assays.

                                                            Indirect ECL assay

                                                            Indirect assays are similar to direct ECL format, but an additional secondary antibody binds to the primary antibody to detect the microplate-bound antigen.

                                                            Indirect MSD

                                                            Figure 5. Diagrams of direct and indirect MSD assays.

                                                            Bridging assay

                                                            These assays are used primarily when the target molecule is another antibody. Bridging assays are a particular type of sandwich ELISA, where a bridge is created between a labeled and unlabeled antigen to detect anti drug antibody (ADA) in the sample. These assays are beneficial for confirming antibody production against an antibody-drug conjugate or therapeutic antibody and are frequently used in ADA and PK assays.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            Multiplexing Using The ECL Platform

                                                            MSD Multiplex assays are one of the most prominent features of ECL platforms. ECL multiplex assays capture different antigens at distinct spots within a single microplate well. The CCD camera in ECL multiplex systems can identify up to 10 spots within a single well. Thus, ECL assay services can simultaneously quantify up to ten different analytes using the same study sample.

                                                            Besides, there are several advantages of MSD multiplex assays. They can quantify multiple analytes in a single assay volume. This quantification, in turn, will require lesser sample volumes, saving crucial biological samples.

                                                            Meso Scale Discovery offers two main multiplex assay products; V-Plex and U-Plex. V-Plex is a pre-validated microplate bound with capture antibodies. On the other hand, U-Plex allows end-users to choose the primary antibodies of their choice, thus providing a tailored multiplexing panel for sample analysis. Hence, many companies prefer ELISA conversion to multiplex ECL assay for analyzing their preclinical or clinical samples given these advantages.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            Assay Format Development Using ECL Plates

                                                            Numerous variations in the ECL platform have enabled the development of different assay formats, such as ECL PK assay and ECL cytokine assay. Moreover, each assay format can be performed in different ways. Some of the assay formats for sandwich ECL assay are discussed below.

                                                            Assay Format Development
                                                            Assay Format Development
                                                            Assay Format Development

                                                            Figure 6. Immunoassay formats using capture antibodies on MSD MULTI-ARRAY plates.

                                                            Typical Immunoassay

                                                            There are three different sandwich ECL assay formats possible.

                                                            • Biotinylated detection antibody is bound to the Sulfo-Tag Streptavidin complex
                                                            • The Sulfo-Tag complex is conjugated to the detection antibody
                                                            • The detection antibody is bound to the Sulfo-Tag conjugate anti-species antibody.

                                                            Immunoassays Using Non-Antibody Capture Regents

                                                            Besides antibody capture reagents, ECL assay can immobilize carbohydrates, cells, lysates, virus-like particles, kinase substrates, and oligonucleotides on microwell plates.

                                                            Standard Plates

                                                            Figure 7. Examples of immunoassay formats using nonantibody molecules as capture reagents on MSD MULTI-ARRAY plates. In addition to sandwich immunoassays, other formats, such as direct binding or competitive assays, are also feasible.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            Meso Scale Discovery Immunoassay Plates

                                                            Electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECL immunoassay) plates have carbon electrodes at the bottom of wells to support ECL detection in assay formats.

                                                            ECL Assay Plate Surfaces

                                                            ECL assay plate surface comes in two types; standard plates with a hydrophobic surface and high bind plates with a hydrophilic surface. The amount of capture reagents to be coated depends on the combination of surface type and working electrode size.

                                                            Meso Scale Discovery recommends coating the microplate with specific concentrations for reproducible results across different plate lots. Furthermore, they provide recommended antibody concentration ranges for spot coating and solution coating along with the product. The table below gives an overview of the binding capacity of standard and high-bind plate surfaces. This data was obtained from Meso Scale Dicovery using Sulfo-Tag conjugated A/G reporter protein and IgG as the capture reagent.

                                                            Plate type 96-well, 1 spot 96-well, small spot 384-well, 1 spot
                                                            Standard plate 1.0 pmol/well 0.25 pmol/well 0.2 pmol/well
                                                            High bind plate 5.0 pmol/well 1.25 pmol/well 1.0 pmol/well

                                                            Generally, high bind plates are suitable for measuring analytes at higher concentrations. On the other hand, standard plates offer higher sensitivity but exhibit lower nonspecific binding. Hence, it is recommended to test both assay surface types to identify an optimal plate surface.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            ECL Assay Plate Coating During Method Development

                                                            Researchers can spot-coat or solution-coat the Meso Scale Discovery ECL plates. Although both methods are feasible for antibodies, spot coating may provide more sensitivity. This increased sensitivity from spot coating results from limiting the signal to working electrode.

                                                            Solution Coating of Antibodies

                                                            In solution coating, researchers must dispense the antibody solution in the bottom corner of the well. Touching the sides of wells or pipetting without submerging the tip can increase assay variability.

                                                            Solution Coating of Antibodie

                                                            Figure 8. Appropriate solution-coating technique.

                                                            Spot Coating of Antibodies

                                                            High bind and standard plates use different coating buffers. During spot coating of antibodies, standard plate buffers may require using a limited surfactant to cover the working electrode.

                                                            Spot Coating of Antibodies

                                                            Figure 9. Appropriate spot-coating technique. The droplet of diluted antibody should be confined to the working electrode surface and not breach the dielectric barrier

                                                            Assay signal in High Bind Plates

                                                            This example compares the signal of spot-coated antibodies and solution-coated antibodies for four mouse antibodies against human cytokines. The data suggest that spot-coated high bind plates demonstrate a 2 to 3-fold higher signal than solution-coated plates. This data also means spot coating immobilizes more antibodies than solution coating.

                                                            High Bind Plates
                                                            High Bind Plates

                                                            Figure 10. Signals from solution-coated (A) and spot-coated (B) antibodies on High Bind plates are compared for four different mouse antibodies raised against human cytokines.

                                                            High Bind Plates
                                                            High Bind Plates

                                                            Figure 11. Comparison of solution-coated (blue) and spot-coated (red) capture antibodies shows that the spot-coated High Bind plates had 2- to 3-fold higher maximum signals compared to the solution-coated plates. This suggests that more antibodies can be immobilized through spot coating. Different antibodies have different signal profiles for solution vs. spot coating.

                                                            Assay signal in Standard Plates

                                                            This example follows the same procedure mentioned above, but instead of high bind plates, it uses standard plates for spot coating and solution coating of antibodies. Again, spot-coated standard plates demonstrated a higher signal compared to solution coating. Hence, whether it’s high bind plates or standard plates, spot coating is the ideal technique to immobilize the highest number of antibodies for analysis.

                                                            Standard Plates
                                                            Standard Plates

                                                            Figure 12. Signals from solution-coated (A) and spot-coated (B) antibodies on Standard plates are compared for four different mouse antibodies raised against human cytokines.

                                                            Standard Plates
                                                            Standard Plates

                                                            Figure 13. Comparison of solution-coated (blue) and spot-coated (red) capture antibodies shows that the spot-coated Standard plates had higher maximum signals compared to the solution-coated plates. This suggests that more antibody can be immobilized on the spot through spot coating. Different antibodies have different signal profiles for solution vs. spot coating.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            ECL Assay Plate Coating For Non-Antibody Molecules

                                                            Other than antibodies, ECL assay plates can immobilize additional molecules, such as peptides, antigens, carbohydrates, membranes, and oligonucleotides. However, different concentrations of coating buffers must be tested for non-antibody molecules. The choice of assay surface depends on the interplay between electrical charges on small molecules.

                                                            Researchers can immobilize cells and membranes through passive adsorption. This process directly binds the molecule without using binding agents. However, ECL recommends using gas-permeable seals for sealing the plates during coating. On the other hand, researchers can coat peptides directly or by conjugating them to a carrier protein. Generally, ECL recommends 5 to 10 ng/spot for small proteins and peptides. However, this volume must be varied depending on the binding capacity of the ECL plates.

                                                            Standard Plates
                                                            Standard Plates

                                                            Figure 14. Cell binding assay on MSD High Bind plates

                                                            Standard Plates
                                                            Protein Antigen

                                                            Figure 15. Titration of mouse antiserum on MSD plates coated with different concentrations of a peptide used as the capture reagent.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            Steps To Follow For Detailed Sandwich Immunoassay Protocol With ECL Plate Coating

                                                            Before starting the Meso Scale Discovery ECL assay, one must conjugate the detection antibody with a Sulfo-Tag. Either they can directly conjugate the primary antibody with the Sulfo-Tag molecule or introduce a secondary reporter molecule and couple it with an unlabeled detection reagent. Following is an example of a detailed sandwich immunoassay protocol with the ECL method.

                                                            • Coat the ECL plate depending on the surface type
                                                            • Block the plate if required
                                                            • Prepare the assay controls and calibrators
                                                            • Wash the plates and add assay controls and calibrators
                                                            • Prepare the detection antibody
                                                            • Wash the plates and add the detection antibody solution
                                                            • Prepare the read buffer
                                                            • Wash the assay plates and read them
                                                            Schematic diagram of the typical steps in an MSD assay

                                                            Figure 16. Schematic diagram of the typical steps in an MSD assay.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            ECL Assay: Plate Storage And Expiration

                                                            Researchers can store uncoated ECL assay plates at room temperature. However, once the plate package is opened, it is recommended to keep the unused plate in the original packaging. Unopened plate packages have a 30-month shelf life.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            Steps To Follow For Typical ECL Plates Layouts For Assay Optimization

                                                            Researchers can consider several steps to optimize ECL assays. They must test multiple titrations for detection and capture antibodies to increase assay signal and reduce background noise. Besides, the maximum assay signal must be less than 1 million counts.

                                                            If a high background is present without the sample, one can use lower antibody concentrations. Users must vary the incubation times. Moreover, analysts must test different diluents for optimal dilution linearity and recovery in different study matrices.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            Meso Scale Discovery ECL Assay: Services & Applications

                                                            Meso Scale or ECL technology has numerous applications as a highly advanced bioanalytical testing tool. From ECL or MSD cytokine panels and cytokine ELISA formats to cardiac biomarkers and ubiquitinated proteins, ECL assays are offered by Meso Scale Discovery through several products.

                                                            NorthEast BioLab offers bioanalysis services on highly sensitive ECL assay platform for preclinical and clinical sample analysis, including cytokine, PK/PD, and ADA assessments.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            V-PLEX

                                                            Meso Scale Discovery uses control samples covering the entire quantifiable range to provide absolute quantification across assay runs and lots. Besides, ECL has manufactured more than 400 V-Plex kits with robust analytical performance.

                                                            V-PLEX Assays Demonstrate a High Degree of Lot-to-Lot Reproducibility

                                                            Meso Scale Discovery uses control samples covering the entire quantifiable range to provide absolute quantification across assay runs and lots. Besides, ECL has manufactured more than 400 V-Plex kits with robust analytical performance.

                                                            V-PLEX Analytes

                                                            Meso Scale Discovery provides V-Plex analytes as part of the ECL multiplex panel or individual validated assay. These analytes are grouped into human, rat, mouse, non-human primate, and Human/NHP/Mouse/Rat/Canine.

                                                            Preconfigured V-PLEX Kits

                                                            Moreover, a subset of V-Plex analytes that meet all specifications for performance and quality is available in a preconfigured panel. They are available in 1,5 and 25-panel plates.

                                                            V-PLEX Assay Platform

                                                            V-Plex assays are validated assay kits. They offer a broader dynamic range, consistency, and higher sensitivity, making them ideal for many long-term studies.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            U-PLEX

                                                            ECL U-Plex assays allow researchers to build their immunoassays without any additional equipment. U-Plex ECL assays are highly flexible and can be personalized depending on individual assay needs.

                                                            U-PLEX Assay Development Workflow Procedure

                                                            The ECL U-Plex protocol consists of three basic steps:

                                                            • Couple the biotinylated antibody and the U-Plex linker
                                                            • Coat the microplate wells with specific linkers
                                                            • Run personalized combinations of ECL U-Plex assays.

                                                            U-Plex custom assays provide tailored options to combine ECL assays with the analyte of your choice. Besides, U-Plex development packs allow custom multiplexing with up to 10 activated spots.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            U-PLEX Metabolic Group 1 Assays

                                                            Today research suggests that diabetes, metabolic syndromes, and cardiovascular diseases have complex pathologies. These complex networks have increased the demand for robust biomarkers and stringent MSD U-plex protocols. Besides, obesity is linked directly to diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and hypertension. Hence, the ECL U-Plex platform has simplified these biomarkers in the following three groups.

                                                            • U-PLEX Metabolic Human Biomarkers
                                                            • U-PLEX Metabolic Mouse Biomarkers
                                                            • U-PLEX Metabolic Rat Biomarkers.

                                                            Moreover, each of these group 1 assays is available on both Meso Scale multiplex and singleplex platforms.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            U-PLEX Metabolic Combinations

                                                            Apart from the above metabolic combinations, ECL also has another comprehensive list of metabolic combinations. These combinations are also grouped into:

                                                            • U-PLEX Metabolic Human Combinations
                                                            • U-PLEX Metabolic Mouse Combinations
                                                            • U-PLEX Metabolic Rat Combinations.

                                                            U-PLEX Assay Platform

                                                            U-Plex assays are personalized assay platforms. They provide more flexibility, allowing the use of specific reagents.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            S-PLEX

                                                            S-Plex is a ultrasensitive platform for detecting analytes at low femtogram levels. Their lower limit of detection is up to 1000-fold reduced compared to other assay methods.

                                                            The S-Plex procedure has three steps:

                                                            • Assembling the immunoassay
                                                            • Enhance, consists of adding the assay reagent to improve and generate the signal
                                                            • The read step involves adding the ECL GOLD read buffer to measure the generated assay signal.

                                                            NorthEast BioLab provides S-Plex services to clients in need of highly sensitive assays. Meso Scale Discovery offers conjugation with either Sulfo-Tag or biotin as detector and capture reagents. These assays are available for a wide range of molecules, such as MSD mouse cytokine ELISA panels.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            R-PLEX

                                                            R-Plex assays are rapid and easy-to-design immunoassays with all advantages of the ECL and Multi-array technology. Mostly, R-Plex platforms offers highly versatile ECL immunoassays development formats using antibodies to nearly 400 analytes. Depending on singleplex or multiplex needs, researchers can choose their type of assay plates and combine them with R-Plex antibodies. The R-Plex assays work well for many research areas, such as ECL cytokine ELISA analysis, inflammation, cancer, cell signaling, immunology, and neurodegeneration.

                                                            The R-Plex antibody set consists of three major components:

                                                            • Sulfo-Tag detection antibody
                                                            • Biotinylated capture antibody
                                                            • Calibrator
                                                            Back to Top

                                                            T-PLEX

                                                            T-Plex assay platforms are research-grade assay kits available for both single and multiplex assays. These ECL assays offer a wide range of multiplexed bioanalysis options with greater sensitivity, consistency, and dynamic range. These multiplex panels are grouped into Cytokine/Inflammation Panels, Metabolic Panels, Neurodegeneration Panels, Isotyping Panels, Toxicology/Injury Panels, Activated/Total Panels, and Intracellular Signaling Panels. Furthermore, they are compatible with multiple biological matrices. The following table compares the two main types of T-Plex formats.

                                                            Features Intracellular biomarker assay Secreted biomarker assay
                                                            Common usage Cell signaling research and neurobiology Immunology, cytokine research, and inflammation
                                                            Sample volume 0.25 µg cell lysate 25 µg sample
                                                            Sample type CSF, cell culture supernatant, cell lysates, serum, plasma Plasma, serum, cell culture supernatant, urine
                                                            Calibrator present Nov Yes
                                                            Format Singleplex and multiplex Singleplex and multiplex
                                                            Run time Typically three hours Typically three hours
                                                            Back to Top

                                                            Meso Scale Discovery ECL Assay Development Tools

                                                            ECL assay development tools are a suite of tools that meet all aspects of quality and performance. These tools include ECL GOLD products and the U-Plex assay platform. Furthermore, ECL assays offer ELISA conversion packs to transition existing ELISA assays to the ECL platform. These packs include assay formats such as sandwich, bridging, competitive and direct assays.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            Meso Scale Discovery ECL Instruments & Software

                                                            The ECL or MSD technology has two instruments at its disposal; MESO SECTOR S 600MM and MESO QuickPlex SQ 120MM.

                                                            Meso Sector S 600mm: The MESO SECTOR S 600MM is a flagship instrument. It provides rapid results, a wide dynamic range, and a low-noise CCD camera.

                                                            Meso Quickplex SQ 120mm: The MESO QuickPlex SQ 120MM is a versatile instrument. It specializes in ease of use, reliability, and low maintenance costs.

                                                            Equipment and Assay Analysis Software: ECL instruments run on the Methodical Mind and Discover Workbench software. Both these softwares can manage databases, analyze data, and come with data integrity tools.

                                                            At NorthEast Bioanalytical Laboratory, we employ the latest technology to provide you with best-in-class bioanalysis.

                                                            Back to Top

                                                            Registered And Inspected By Various Regulatory Agencies

                                                            Speak to Our Scientist About Your Meso Scale Discovery: ECL Multiplex Assays For Cytokine ELISA, Immunognecicity, & PK

                                                            NorthEast BioLab are Ready to Help!
                                                            Call Us Today

                                                            Similar Learning Center Articles

                                                            • Introduction to Immunogenicity Assays on Meso Scale Discovery

                                                            • Complete Guide On Anti Drug Antibody (ADA) Assay Development, Immunogenicity Assessment, And FDA Guidance

                                                            • Drug Discovery and Development Process

                                                            • The Basics of Bioanalysis: How Do We Develop and Validate Your Bioanalytical Method?

                                                            • Complete Guide On LC-MS: Working, Analysis & Methods

                                                            • Introduction to Pharmacokinetics (PK)

                                                            • Complete Guide On IND Enabling GLP Toxicology Studies

                                                            • Importance Of Bioavailability And Bioequivalence In Drug Development

                                                            • Good Laboratory Practices for Bioanalytical Laboratories

                                                            Relevant Regulatory References

                                                            • FDA M10 Bioanalytical Method Validation (2022)

                                                            • Immunogenicity Testing Of Therapeutic Protein Products – Guidance For Industry (2019)

                                                            • Meso Scale Discovery References

                                                            • Multiplex measurement of proinflammatory cytokines in human serum: comparison of the Meso Scale Discovery electrochemiluminescence assay and the Cytometric Bead Array

                                                            • Meso Scale Discovery and Luminex Comparative Analysis of Calbindin D28K

                                                            • Emerging Technologies and Generic Assays for the Detection of Anti-Drug Antibodies

                                                            • Comparative Analysis of Multiple Immunoassays for Cytokine Profiling in Drug Discovery

                                                            view more

                                                            Explore our Expertise

                                                            What NorthEast BioLab can do for You
                                                            • Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry

                                                            • ELISA Assay

                                                            • Meso Scale Discovery Assay

                                                            • Luminex Multiplex Assay

                                                            • LI-COR Odyssey Assay

                                                            • PK PD Analysis

                                                            • Method Development Validation and Transfer

                                                            • Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry

                                                            • ELISA Assay

                                                            • Meso Scale Discovery Assay

                                                            • Luminex Multiplex Assay

                                                            • LI-COR Odyssey Assay

                                                            • PK PD Analysis

                                                            • Method Development Validation and Transfer

                                                            Expertise

                                                            • Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS)
                                                            • Meso Scale Discovery Assay
                                                            • ELISA Assay
                                                            • qPCR Analysis, dPCR Assay
                                                            • LI-COR Odyssey (WB, ICW)

                                                            Services

                                                            • Pharmacokinetics (PK) Study
                                                            • ADA Assay, Neutralizing Antibody Assay
                                                            • Cytokine Analysis, Biomarker Assay
                                                            • Cell-Based Assay
                                                            • Bioanalytical Assay Validation

                                                            Solutions

                                                            • Method Development, Validation, And Transfer
                                                            • Bioanalysis
                                                            • GLP Laboratory
                                                            • Clinical CRO
                                                            • Preclinical CRO
                                                            • Analytical Testing
                                                            • Non-GLP Testing

                                                            About Us

                                                            • Overview
                                                            • Why Us?
                                                            • Values
                                                            • Leadership
                                                            • Process
                                                            • Quality and Compliance
                                                            • Facility and Equipment
                                                            • Therapeutic Areas
                                                            • Partners
                                                            • Careers

                                                            Resources

                                                            • Learning Center
                                                            • Blog
                                                            • Case Study
                                                            • Video Brochures
                                                            • News and Events
                                                            • Testimonials
                                                            • Contact Us
                                                            NorthEast BioLab Logo

                                                            35 Worth Ave, Hamden, CT 06518

                                                            sales@nebiolab.comFollow Up On Email
                                                            (203) 361 3780Follow Up On Phone

                                                            Contact A Scientist With Your Bioanalytical Study Details

                                                            We Will Respond Within 1 Business Day

                                                            • Good Laboratory Practice for Nonclinical Laboratory Studies
                                                            • Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
                                                            • United States Drug Enforcement Administration
                                                            • Connecticut State Department of Consumer Protection
                                                            • Privacy Policy
                                                            • Terms of Use
                                                            • Sitemap
                                                            © 2019 - 2025, NorthEast BioAnalytical Laboratories LLC. All rights reserved.

                                                            How Can We Help?

                                                            I agree to receive emails, calls, and messages, etc from NorthEast BioLab.

                                                            Before you go! Get
                                                            your FREE Download:

                                                            Top 7 Hidden Pitfalls to your Bioanalytical Milestones

                                                            Step by step guide on how to accelerate your drug approval

                                                            • Addressing Main Constraints
                                                            • Research Best Practices
                                                            • The Economic Advantage
                                                            • Critical Decision Marketing Mode Easy
                                                            • Legal Documentation Checklist
                                                            We won’t share your email, ever, See our privacy policy

                                                            No thanks, I don’t need to improve my drug approval process