Designing Custom MSD Assays for Multiplex Biomarker Profiling

Robust bioanalytical assays are critical for successful drug development studies. Today, researchers have several assay alternatives, such as ELISA and qRT PCR analysis, to evaluate analytes in complex biological matrices. Meso-scale Discovery (MSD) is one such reliable tool to study compounds in study samples. MSD assays can detect biomarkers through single and multiplex assay formats using next-gen electrochemiluminescence detection. It combines multiarray technology with electrochemiluminescence detection to deliver highly dense and rapid analysis through miniaturization, organization, and simultaneous processing of biological samples. The MSD immunogenicity product line has multiple assay kits, such as MSD cytokine assays for studying cell signaling pathways and biomarkers and a range of assay development reagents and plates. The current article focuses on designing custom MSD biomarker assays.

MSD Meso Scale assays for multiplex biomarker profiling

MSD assay services offer a unique immunoassay platform for quantifying biomarkers in biological samples. With over 400 MSD ECL assay kits and customization abilities, MSD assays can accurately determine different levels of biomarkers, cytokines, and phosphoproteins in multiple matrices, including plasma, serum, blood, urine, and supernatant. Besides, scientists can obtain high-quality data in less time, cost, and effort. These characteristics have resulted in the rapid adoption of MSD technology by major pharmaceutical companies, academic and government institutions, and clinical research organizations. 

Clinical samples are inherently complex. Hence, traditional immunoassays such as ELISA and RIA may find it challenging to evaluate clinical study samples. Besides a broader concentration range of analytes, limited sample volumes and complex biological matrices such as vaginal fluids and sputum can make clinical evaluations even more daunting. However, MSD assays can overcome multiple challenges faced by traditional immunoassays. MSD assays have a broader dynamic range, multiplexing capacities, improved sensitivity, and work well with difficult biological samples. Besides, MSD is ideal for regulated work environments. They have software designed to support 21 CFR Part 11 and GLP compliance and are available in IQ/OQ/PQ validation packages. 

A broader dynamic range helps scientists measure biomarkers in deceased and control samples without multiple dilutions. MSD biomarker assays are highly adaptable and can quantify analytes in different sample matrices. Moreover, multiplexing capacities and high sensitivity allow researchers to analyze biomarkers in single assay volumes. 

MSD supports drug development at every step of the R&D process. For specific analyte combinations, MSD can prepare custom kits and provide multiplex panels to assess these individual analytes. Besides, their field scientists and support team work with in-house scientists to generate a protocol for the customized assay. Moreover, for analytes not available in the MSD assay list, researchers can share their antibody pairs, and they will coat these antibodies through prototype printing services. 

Prototype printing services are an ideal way to develop customized biomarker assays. This service allows researchers to coat MSD plates with materials of their choice. These capture materials include antibodies, proteins and peptides, and carbohydrates and polysaccharides. MSD instruments offer high throughput analysis. They use ultra-low noise CCD cameras to deliver a broader dynamic range, rapid read times, and higher sensitivity. In conclusion, MSD assays are ideal for multiplex biomarker profiling. Besides, customization capacities make them critical in evaluating novel biomarkers.

Must Read: Step-By-Step Guide To Plan A MSD Assay Protocol