Cell Binding Assays
The expert immunologists at iQ Biosciences perform Cell Binding Assays to evaluate the affinity and specificity of therapeutics against target antigens. Our flow cytometry-based assays provide quantitative binding data using cell lines or primary cells from multiple species, supporting dose-response assessments and preclinical development. With flexible assay design options, we help clients generate high-quality data to inform lead selection or IND applications and optimize therapeutic development strategies.
Our services
- Verify the specificity of your therapeutic with an in vitro cell binding assay.
- Utilize cell lines or iQ Biosciences’ high quality cryopreserved primary cells—including PBMCs and isolated subsets from various species—as target cells for your assay.
- Collaborate with our experienced immunologists to identify the most relevant cell binding controls for your therapeutic candidate.
- Leverage our expertise in evaluating small and large molecule therapeutics, including monoclonal antibodies, bispecific antibodies, and antibody drug conjugates (ADCs).
- Generate cell binding data across multiple concentrations to assess dose-responsive effects, inform binding potency, and support IND submission for your therapeutic.
- See our whole blood cell subset binding offering.
The iQ Experience
Tailored Experiments
Your research is important to us. Our scientists will work through each step of the process with you, including assay design, data analysis, and recommendations for future studies.
Streamlined Process
Simplify your workflow. Bypass the middle-man: at iQ Biosciences, you’ll get immediate access to our biospecimen inventory, saving you both valuable time and money.
Expertise
We’re experts – so you don’t have to be. Augmenting years of experience in immunology and working with immune assays, our scientists stay current with the latest publications and technology.
Exceptional Service
We’re here to help. We know the challenges you’re facing: whether it be through expedited service or our complimentary consulting services, our team is dedicated to helping you reach your goals.
Service overview
How can iQ Biosciences help achieve your goals the smarter way?
Assessing the ability of a therapeutic to bind to different cell types helps researchers evaluate its specificity against a target antigen and predict the treatment response across various disease endpoints in the clinic. At iQ Biosciences, we have the tools to evaluate target cell binding using either cell lines or primary cells from a variety of species. In our target cell binding assay, your therapeutic is applied to target cells of interest across a range of concentrations to determine dose-responsive effects.
We employ a flow cytometry-based approach to assess cell binding. A viability dye can be used to exclude dead or dying cells from analysis, and Fc-receptor blocking strategies help prevent non-specific binding. After unconjugated primary antibody treatment of the test article of interest, as well as positive (antigen-specific pharmaceuticals) and negative (isotype) controls, isotype-specific, fluorophore-conjugated secondary antibody is applied to assess target cell binding. Optionally, fluorescently conjugated commercial antibodies against lineage-specific cell surface markers can be included to determine binding to specific cell populations.
The degree of cell binding is quantified by:
- Mean Fluorescence Intensity (MFI) of the secondary antibody fluorophore channel, within the live cell population, or further sub-gated populations of interest
- Percentage of antigen-positive cells for the secondary antibody fluorophore channel (within the live cell population)
EC50 and maximum values of the nonlinear regression curve will be provided.
Additionally, we offer flexibility in assay design, including:
- Evaluating test articles directly conjugated with a fluorophore, eliminating the need for secondary antibodies.
- Using antigen-negative cell lines or primary cells as additional controls to assess target antigen specificity
- Quantifying antigen density levels with fluorescence quantification beads and fluorescently-conjugated commercial antibodies, reported as antibody binding capacity per cell. This can be measured alongside cell binding or other iQ assay offerings.
B
This binding study was performed to evaluate the binding of three test articles (antibodies) against HEL 92.1.7 cells. Cells were incubated with viability dye, followed by a dilution series of test articles or hIgG1 Isotype control (negative control). After primary antibody incubation, cells were stained with AF647-labeled secondary antibody and acquired via high throughput flow cytometry. Data presented as (A) GeoMean Fluorescence Intensity (GeoMFI) values and (B) percent AF647+, gated on live cells.
Order Information
Pricing
At iQ Biosciences, we understand that each client is unique. Upon quote request, we will provide complimentary consulting services to determine how to tailor our services to best meet your goals. Based on this preliminary assessment, we will be able to provide a price quote.
Expected Timetable
Fit a timetable appropriate to your research goals. We work with you to determine your expected turn-around on a case-by-case basis and ensure that our services fit your needs. Some experiments may require an expedited service – please inquire for more information.
