Potential of label-free detection in high-content-screening applications

The classical approach of high-content screening (HCS) is based on multiplexed, functional cell-based screening and combines several analytical technologies that have been used before separately to achieve a better level of automation (scale-up) and higher throughput. New HCS methods will help to overcome the bottlenecks, e.g. in the present development chain for lead structures for the pharmaceutical industry or during the identification and validation process of new biomarkers. In addition, there is a strong need in analytical and bioanalytical chemistry for functional high-content assays which can be provided by different hyphenated techniques. This review discusses the potential of a label-free optical biosensor based on reflectometric interference spectroscopy (RIfS) as a bridging technology for different HCS approaches. Technical requirements of RIfS are critically assessed by means of selected applications and compared to the performance characteristics of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) which is currently the leading technology in the area of label-free optical biosensors.