Today researchers have multiple bioanalytical tools for analyzing analytes in biological samples. These methods include RT-PCR, ELISA, and western blot technique. Measuring analytes early during the preclinical phase is critical in optimizing the candidate drug compound and helping it transition into subsequent clinical trials. However, biological samples are inherently complex. Analyzing complex samples requires tools that are highly sensitive, accurate, and produce reliable results.

Meso Scale Discovery (MSD) analysis has emerged as one such robust platform for analyzing analytes in complex biological matrices. The platform has different assays and reagents to rapidly  detect and quantify  analytes within a small-volume study sample. However, bioanalytical method validation will always remain crucial for generating reliable study data. 

MSD analysis

This technology combines electrochemiluminescence detection and multi-array technology for parallel processing of data. This combination provides quantitative measures of your analyte of interest. Besides, if  any particular analyte still needs to be  validated, we can help you validate your analyte of interest. Currently, there are over 500 different assay panels with customization capacities to detect and analyze a broad range of proteins. Incorporating such robust systems early during drug development is crucial in advancing and accelerating preclinical research. 

Moreover, the MSD platform has four  types of immunoassays, V-plex, U-plex, R-plex, and S-plex. 

R-plex are validated assays that deliver consistent, reliable, and reproducible data. It employs a fit-for-purpose approach to validate the assay panels in multiple study matrices. Moreover, researchers can use these assays as multiplex variants or separate assays to ensure consistent and optimal performance. 

U-plex assays are custom multiplex assays providing the flexibility to tailor singleplex or multiplex analysis. 

R-plex employs custom assay design to develop single or multiplex bioanalytical analysis. R-plex assays have electrochemiluminescence labeled detection antibodies, biotinylated capture antibodies, and recombinant protein standards. 

Lastly, S-plex is an extra-sensitive MSD assay. The detection antibodies in these assays are optimized in such a way that they can detect analytes at low femtogram levels. They are a promising alternative to detect analytes present at low concentrations.

Applications of MSD Analysis in preclinical research

With robust assay technology, the MSD platform provides greater precision, sensitivity, reproducibility, and quantification capacities. These benefits are complemented by rapid turnaround times that lower the cost associated with assay elements. Besides, MSD assays can analyze up to 10 analytes in a single well. With such diverse applications, the MSD platform can be used in different study types, adding value and delivering robust and reliable results. Some preclinical applications include:

• Oncology
• Bone metabolism
• Inflammation
• Cytokines and chemokines
• Angiogenesis
• Cardiovascular
• Neurodegeneration
• Intracellular signaling
• Toxicology
• Hypoxia
• Immunology
• GPCR-ligand binding proteins
• Growth factors

Through reliable preclinical research, MSD analysis increases the transition ability of lead compounds from the preclinical phase into clinical studies and post-marketing assessments. 

Whether researchers are testing immunogenicity or profiling cytokines and biomarkers, understanding the presence of specific proteins is one of the most crucial assessments in preclinical research. And MSD services are an ideal platform for analyzing new analytes in complex study samples. The combination of consistent results and low sample volume analysis makes MSD assay protocol a crucial tool for revolutionizing preclinical research.

Must Read: Advances in MSD Biomarker Discovery and Validation in 2023