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Label-free cell-based assays using photonic crystal optical biosensors
Steven M Shamah1, Brian T Cunningham
1Director of Cell Biology, SRU Biosystems, Woburn, MA, USA.
The Analyst
|February 1, 2011
Summary
Label-free biosensor technology enables real-time, non-destructive monitoring of cell behavior in culture. This approach offers a powerful new tool for cell-based assays, including high-throughput screening of stem cells.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cell Biology
- Biosensor Technology
Background:
- Biosensors, initially for biomolecular interactions, now advance cell-based assays.
- Label-free biosensors offer non-destructive, long-term cell monitoring.
- Traditional methods like microscopy lack temporal resolution for cell-surface interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the application of photonic crystal optical biosensor microplates in cell-based assays.
- To highlight the advantages of label-free biosensing for quantitative cell monitoring.
- To discuss advancements in biosensor detection for population and single-cell analysis.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing photonic crystal optical biosensor microplates for cell attachment monitoring.
- Employing label-free detection to avoid cell death and photobleaching.
- Applying temporal monitoring of cellular processes like proliferation and apoptosis.
Main Results:
- Biosensors provide unique temporal data on integrin-surface interactions.
- Label-free systems allow quantitative, extended monitoring of cell behavior.
- Photonic crystal biosensors can assess aggregate or individual cell responses.
Conclusions:
- Biosensor technology revolutionizes cell-based assays by enabling label-free, real-time monitoring.
- Photonic crystal biosensors offer versatile applications, from basic research to high-throughput screening.
- Advancements in detection support assays with limited cell numbers, crucial for stem cell research.
