BioCELL actiVATION
A highly specific and sensitive assay to examine the acute metabolic effects of immune cell activation and stimulation in real-time.
A real-time assay that quantifies increases in oxidative and glycolytic flux as a signature event for immune cell activation.
Our BioCELL actiVATION assay is specifically aimed at measuring acute metabolic changes that occur upon immune cell activation. Our assay can monitor real-time kinetic responses from several minutes upto 6 hours of stimulation. This is accomplished by measuring both oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and proton efflux rate (PER) using XF analysis that is associated with mitochondrial and glycolytic pathway-dependent energy production upon addition of immune cell activating agents. This is built on principles that immune cell activation is accompanied by rapid increases in cellular energy production and intermediate demand to support effective proliferation, size expansion, differentiation and cytokine production and secretion. Such principles are supported by recent advances in the field of immunology that recognise cellular metabolism as a primary driver and regulator of immune cell function and lineage commitment.
We can use this test to address multiple experimental outcomes:
A standard assay for testing immune cell activation.
A modulation assay for investigating modulatory effects of test compounds on immune cell activation.
A metabolic phenotypic assay to identify cellular proliferation, differentiation or polarisation state of immune cells.
Compatible with multiple experimental designs.
By quantifying ATP supply rate from both glycolytic and mitochondrial pathways following activation we are able to identify different bioenergetic demands and phenotypes of immune cells. Moreover, we can compare and monitor real-time changes in immune responses from healthy versus diseased cells and investigate treatment outcomes on immune cell function. Or investigate effects of drugs or compound dosing on real-time kinetic responses of immune cell activation and consequent ATP supply rates.
Use ATP rate data calculations to get even more insights.
Key Features.
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Real-time kinetic measurements
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Live cell samples
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Integrated injection ports
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Label free sensors
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Multi-parameter analysis
FAQs
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This assay works for specific types of immune cells. We have experience with JURKAT, THP-1, HMC3, PBMCs, T-cells, monocytes, NK cells, macrophages, and microglial.
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In some cases we would recommend optimising the assay, for example if a specific cell type or cell model is being used. We can support any optimisation using our BioCELL optiMIZE assay service.
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For adherent cells we would recommend including a post-hoc cell density test. We typically use a fluorescent based nuclear stain for normalisation to cell density. Whereby this test is not suitable for the cell model being used we can also offer total protein or dsDNA for normalisation. For suspension cells, post-hoc normalisation is not normally necessary.
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