Cellasys #8: A Microphysiometric Assay for Real-Time Cell Analysis Within 24 Hours

Methods Mol Biol. 2023:2644:303-311. doi: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3052-5_19.

Abstract

Traditional biochemical assays present a vital toolbox to identify the effects of a test substance on cells. However, current assays are single-point measurements, only reveal one parameter at a time, and introduce potential interferences with labels and fluorescent lights. We have addressed these limitations by introducing the cellasys #8 test which is a microphysiometric assay for real-time cell analysis. Within 24 h, the cellasys #8 test is able to identify not only the effect of a test substance but also measure recovery effects. Due to the multi-parametric read-out, the test provides insights into metabolic as well as morphological changes in real-time. The following protocol provides a detailed introduction to the materials as well as a step-by-step description to support scientists with protocol adoption. The automated and standardized assay opens up manifold new application areas for scientists to study biological mechanisms, develop new therapeutic approaches, and validate serum-free media formulation.

Keywords: Automation; Cell-based assays; Metabolism; Microphysiometry; Morphology; Real-time; Recovery effect; Reproducibility; Sensors.