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Cell-based assays

Cell-based assays are central to drug discovery, toxicity testing, and research, focusing on the analysis of living cells. They deliver key insights into cellular behavior and responses.

About the cell-based assay workflow

Cell-based Assays (CBAs) comprise diverse experiments to evaluate the effect of test compounds on cellular test systems. As such, they can assess toxicity, efficacy, or biological mechanisms in mostly mammalian targets. CBAs are essential for drug discovery, toxicity testing, and basic research. Commonly, CBAs are conducted in a high-throughput fashion to asses diverse conditions, compounds, or targets.

Recently, traditional "2D" CBAs have been complemented by 3D approaches that utilise spheroids or organoids. These 3D cell systems better mimic physiological conditions to improve experimental evidence, but add complexity to experimental setup and raise costs per sample.

Challenges in cell-based assays

Gentle handling to maintain cell viability, especially in 3D
Accurate and reproducible liquid dispensing for assays and media changes
Minimizing contamination and variability
Handling increasing numbers of plates and complex protocols

How our automated liquid handlers help

epMotion provides precise pipetting of cells, media, and test compounds single-point or dose-response assays. Compatibility with various 2D and 3D plate formats as well as commercially available kits support routine and advanced cell-based assays. Our systems allow customization by the user without coding, reduce manual handling, and improve assay reproducibility. By integrating the Byonoy Luminescence reader, you can even further increase walkaway time during runs.
Autoclavable pipette tools, a broad filter tip portfolio, as well as integrable UV decontamination and air filtration make your cell workflows reliable and reproducible.

Discover our epMotion systems

Why our expertise matters

Cell-based work is sensitive - small errors can have an enormous impact on results. Eppendorf’s automation expertise ensures your cells are treated with care, your assays are consistent, and your data is trustworthy. Our application support helps you adapt protocols and troubleshoot challenges, so you can focus on discovery.

Explore a wide variety of ready-to-use protocols for cell-based assays and more. Discover how easy it is to own your solution.

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