European Bioanalysis Forum recommendation on singlicate analysis for ligand binding assays: time for a new mindset

It is well accepted that chromatographic assay methods employ singlicate analysis for toxicokinetic and pharmacokinetic analysis. While conversely, it has been the norm for ligand-binding assays to be run in at least duplicate analyses, stemming mainly from concerns over inherent assay variability and reagent quality. Regulatory guidelines and guidance on bioanalytical method validation has, in the most part, recommended multiple replicates for immunoassays and this has led to the industry being comfortable and familiar with duplicate analysis. Over the last few years, the discussion on whether singlicate analysis is acceptable for ligand-binding assays has grown and the status quo is being challenged for regulated bioanalysis performed using immunoassays. Through interrogation of preclinical and clinical pharmacokinetic assay data from the European Bioanalysis Forum community, the application of a singlicate analysis strategy has shown to have no impact on toxicokinetic and pharmacokinetic parameters when compared with duplicate analysis from the same studies. Therefore, now is the time to adopt a new mindset when it comes to sample analysis for toxicokinetic and pharmacokinetic ligand-binding assays and embrace singlicate analysis in the regulated environment.