Development and application of cell-based bioassay in aquatic toxicity assessment

Cell-based bioassays provide a dynamic and physiologically relevant platform for investigating cellular responses to chemical, biological, and environmental stimuli. Unlike traditional biochemical assays, cell-based bioassays utilize living cells to assess functional outcomes such as proliferation, apoptosis, signal transduction, gene expression, and metabolic activity. This approach enables a more comprehensive understanding of complex biological processes under various stressors or stimulations. Additionally, cell-based bioassays offer ethical, cost-effective, and reliable alternatives to animal testing, particularly in acute toxicity evaluations, aligning with efforts to reduce animal use in research. This review offers a thorough overview of the principles, methodologies, and applications of cell-based bioassays, emphasizing their essential roles in pharmacological, environmental, and biological research. However, challenges such as assay standardization, scalability, reproducibility, and quality control still need to be addressed. Emerging advancements, including 3D cell cultures and microfluidic systems, have substantially enhanced the physiological relevance and precision of these assays. Furthermore, integrating high-content screening (HCS) with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning for data analysis accelerates the testing and interpretation processes in cell-based bioassays. By bridging the gap between in vitro and in vivo models, these assays continue to transform our understanding of cellular mechanisms, disease pathogenesis, and drug actions. The convergence of innovative technologies highlights the promising future of cell-based bioassays, paving the way for predictive, personalized, and sustainable approaches in toxicological assessment.