Live Cell-Based Assay Measures Multiple Metabolic Parameters Simultaneously

A live cell-based assay measures multiple metabolic parameters such as acidification, oxygen consumption, and adhesion of living cells simultaneously.

Metabolic and cytotoxic effects can be visualized as changes of these parameters in dependence of test compounds. Acidification is closely linked to the cellular energy metabolism. Cells develop an acidic extracellular environment as a result of breaking nutrients into energy and waste products. Oxygen is necessary for adenosine triphosphate- (ATP)-generation. The rate of oxygen consumption is also closely linked to the cellular energy metabolism. Cells change their morphology and adhesion in response to test compounds.

The Bionas (Rostock, Germany) 2500 analyzing system allows highly specific signal detection. Cells are cultured directly on Bionas metabolic chip SC1000. The silicon chips are equipped with sensors for acidification, oxygen consumption, and adhesion to allow online monitoring of these metabolic parameters.

Six metabolic chips can be analyzed in parallel with the Bionas 2500 analyzing system. The measurements are carried out continuously over long time periods at a high temporal resolution. Both the dose response and the time course of cellular response can be investigated. Cell metabolism and cell regeneration can be observed in the same assay.

The Bionas 2500 analyzing system allows the user to analyze pharmacodynamic effects: cell metabolism and cell regeneration in the same assay, analysis of dose response and time course of cellular response, and highly specific signal detection.

The system is label-free and non-invasive and reveals a deeper insight in cellular function than possible with endpoint-based assays.


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