Unlocking the Secrets of Analytical Labs: Unleash the Power of MSD ELISA!

Meso scale Discovery (MSD) is a one-stop solution for all analytical lab testing needs. MSD is a bioanalytical assay  with high throughput and multiplexing capacities to facilitate accurate, rapid, and quantitative detection of analytes  in low volumes. Today MSD ELISA assays are a time and cost-effective option for analytical laboratory services to detect biomolecules in complex biological matrices. 

MSD assays are similar to ELISA, except it employs electrochemiluminescence detection and multi-array technology instead of singleplex colorimetric reaction in ELISA assay. MSD ELISA assays have numerous advantages over traditional singleplex immunoassay systems, and therefore analytical labs are increasingly relying on them. Hence, the current article explores the potential of Meso Scale ELISA assay in unlocking the secrets of analytical labs. 

MSD ELISA for Unlocking the Potential of Analytical Labs

As mentioned earlier, MSD employs electrochemiluminescence detection and high-binding carbon electrodes that are more sensitive than traditional ELISA assays. However, unlike  conventional ELISA formats, MSD can also be used in direct, indirect, and sandwich formats. Researchers begin an MSD assay by coating a specific biological reagent, for example, antibodies or antigens, on the carbon electrode at the bottom of the MSD microtiter plate. These carbon electrodes have ten times more binding capacities than conventional polystyrene plates. Sulfo-tag labeled detection antibodies are introduced in the bound sample reaction mixture. Once these antibodies are added, an electric current passing through the electrodes generates a detectable signal that can be quantified using a CCD camera. 

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MSD assays have several advantages over conventional immunoassays. They offer higher sensitivity and a broader dynamic detection range. Biological samples  particularly complex fluids such as CSF, are always in small volumes. MSD assays require low-volume sampling;  therefore they are critical in analyzing precious biological samples. Besides, they minimize matrix effects and facilitate multiplexing capabilities with high precision.  MSD assays have reduced washing steps, similar protocols, and faster read times, making it an ideal platform for analyzing large study samples. 

MSD systems are highly versatile. The carbon electrode can be coated with different capture materials such as antibodies, peptides, proteins, polysaccharides, carbohydrates, and cell lysates, making them crucial in bioanalytical applications such as biomarker assay, pharmacokinetic and toxicokinetic profiling, immunogenicity testing, determining drug efficacy, drug identity bioassays and much more. All these applications and advantages make the MSD platform a vital tool for analytical laboratories in helping sponsors at various phases of drug discovery, development, and manufacturing. Besides, MSD comes in ready-to-use validated kits and customized fit-for-purpose assays encompassing multiple sample matrices from rat, mouse, canine, and human samples. 

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Multiplexing is a significant advantage of MSD ELISA assays in unlocking the potential of analytical laboratories. As the light signal comes from a molecule physically present in a specific area in the microplate, researchers can place different capture antibodies at distinct locations within a single well. MSD microplates come in 96 and 384 wells formats with up to 4 to 10 spots for capturing antibodies. This feature allows the detection of up to 10 different analytes within a single well, exponentially increasing efficiency and productivity.