A flipr assay is a versatile platform for kinetic assays that measure changes in intracellular calcium. It is ideal for pharmacological characterization of receptors and ion channels linked to Ca2+ release.
Molecular Devices offers a large portfolio of FLIPR assay kits to support GPCR and ion channel discovery research and screening programs. These assay kits include fluorescence and luminescence detection options.
Cellular
A flipr assay is used to detect drug-target engagement for GPCRs and ion channels. It enables detection of the early agonist and antagonist response and can be used to assess sensitivity in primary screening.
The FLIPR Tetra high throughput cell screening system has a proven track record of reliability and ease of use for kinetic screening of cellular systems. The system combines low-level optical detection, precise temperature control, and fluid handling with a single, compact platform that can be configured to meet your needs.
In Vivo
A flipr assay is a highly accurate and cost effective means to monitor the transport kinetics of compounds. The technique is based on sampling fluorescence of the indicator dyes over time, typically 10 min to 1 hour. The changes in fluorescence are measured using a plate reader (e.g., a FLIPR or Hamamatsu FDSS) and can be used to quantify the transport EC50 of drug candidates.
The assay is particularly useful for screening of small molecules that modulate SLCs during HTP. The most important advantage is the ability to screen a large number of compounds in a short period of time.
In Vitro
A flipr assay is one of many in vivo pharmacological test tubes on the market. The most common uses for the flipr are in vitro protein binding assays, which are particularly useful in the context of pharmacological drug discovery and development.
The best way to determine the most suitable flipr assay is to select a specialized protein binder as a target for your experiments, and then choose a dilution model and a substrate that best suits your experimental needs. This approach is a safe, cost-effective and time-efficient means of gaining valuable information about the protein kinases your research team are interested in targeting. A dilution of an appropriate master compound into the relevant substrate should yield results within a few hours.
Drug Discovery
One important method for drug discovery is high-throughput screening (HTS), where thousands of diverse, random compounds are tested to identify active, drug-like compounds. These hit compounds are chemically altered to gain insights into their mode of action and ultimately lead to a candidate drug for testing in humans.
In this process, it is vital that HTS assays are robust to detect active, drug-like compounds. Assays must be biologically relevant, rapid, and precise to test hundreds of potential compounds.