Immunoassays

Do you need to detect large molecules like nucleic acid-based therapeutics? We offer a range of plate-based assays, including ECL-based immunoassays using the Mesoscale Discovery (MSD) Platform and colorimetric, luminescent, and fluorescent ELISAs.

The MSD Platform, while similar to ELISA, uses electrochemiluminesence detection to analyze complex sample matrices for a variety of analytes. offering superior sensitivity and dynamic range.

GD³'s scientists, have worked with customers worldwide and can work with you to develop custom assays tailored to your specific research needs, whether you're working with antibodies, nucleic acids, or biomarkers. We also work with commercially available kits and can develop fit for purpose assays.

We're committed to quality and compliance. Our assays can be conducted according to FDA GLP guidelines, ensuring reliable and accurate results.

Ligand Binding Assays

• ELISA

  ELISA, or Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay, is a powerful and versatile analytical technique widely used to detect and quantify proteins, antibodies, and hormones in various samples. This method leverages the specificity of antibodies and the sensitivity of enzymatic reactions to provide accurate and reliable results. ELISAs are essential for applications such as disease diagnosis, biomarker discovery, and vaccine development, making them a cornerstone in the fields of immunology, diagnostics, and drug development. As a Contract Research Organization (CRO), we offer comprehensive ELISA services tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients, ensuring high-quality data and expedited results for their research and development projects.

• Meso Scale Discovery (MSD)

  The Mesoscale Discovery (MSD) platform is an innovative technology designed for high-throughput, multiplexed analysis of biomolecules, enabling the simultaneous measurement of multiple analytes in a single sample. Utilizing electrochemiluminescence detection, this platform offers exceptional sensitivity and specificity, making it ideal for applications in drug development, biomarker validation, and clinical diagnostics. The MSD platform provides researchers with the ability to generate robust, quantitative data efficiently, reducing sample volume requirements while increasing throughput.

• Oligonucleotide Hybridization Assays

  Pharmacokinetic studies for oligonucleotide drugs require specific assays. Two assays formats that have been put to use by GD³'s scientists are:

  • Dual hybridization assay uses two unique complementary oligonucleotides to specifically detect the target oligonucleotide. A biotinylated oligo captures the target analyte while the other oligo provides the sulfotag for signal generation.
  • Nuclease protection assay uses a labeled oligonucleotide drug to capture free drug from solution. Following capture, the binding reaction is treated with S1 single stranded nuclease to remove non-bound capture oligonucleotide, removing non-specific signal.

  

  Figure 1. Dual hybridization assay

  

  Figure 2. Nuclease protection assay
• Western blots

  We offer a full range of services, including protein extraction, electrophoresis, transfer, and visualization, alongside expert consultation to optimize your experimental design. Whether you are investigating protein expression, post-translational modifications, or biomarker validation, our commitment to scientific excellence and timely delivery will help accelerate your research program.

  

  Figure 3. Western blot of retinal tissue 3 days following optic nerve crush (ONC) compared to uninjured control: upregulation of injury marker, phosphorylated-cJun, demonstrates activation of signaling pathways important for neuronal outcome following ONC.
• Custom Assay Development
  • Available Services:
    • Method transfer
    • Method development
    • Method qualification
    • Method validation (FDA GLP)
    • Sample analysis (clinical and non-clinical)
  • MSD Assay Characteristics
    • Sensitivity pg/mL
    • Large dynamic range – pg/mL to µg/mL
    • Assay reproducibility
    • Quick turnaround time (2-3 hours) once assay is established
    • Minimal matrix effects

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