Over these last few decades there has been a growing trend in drug discovery to use cellular systems and functional assays, in addition to biochemical assays, for the characterization of new potential therapeutics. The ability to study the interaction between a candidate drug and its target within the context of a whole, intact cell allows for more physiologically relevant data to be obtained. However, such assays are more complex than traditional biochemical assays as such facts as membrane permeability, cellular metabolism, cell variability, additional binding partners, and signal transduction must be considered.

To help you navigate the complexities in designing cell-based assays, we have gathered insights collected over the years and compiled them to provide you with elements to consider when setting up your cell-based assays. After all, any assay, biochemical or cell-based, is only as good as its design.

For research use only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.