A partially automated radioligand binding assay system for use in clinical and pharmaceutical research

Using a Tecan robotic sample processor and IBM compatible PCs we have developed a flexible, partially automated radioligand binding assay system. It handles pipetting parameters of up to 16 saturation or competition experiments at a time with up to 24 radioligand- or competitor-concentrations in a range over 4 orders of magnitude per experiment. The system provides enough flexibility so that all pipetting parameters including different tube-, rack-sizes, sample volumina and pipetting sequences may be easily adapted to the large variety of experimental requirements in binding assays. It rationalizes and increases assay throughput (up to 70% spare of working time), improves reliance and reproducibility of results. Radioactive exposure is minimized to the time preparing the radioligand working solution and transferring the sample tubes to and from the sample processor. The system has proven effective in various investigations on binding interactions, as well as in clinical studies on receptor expression under physiologic, pathological and therapeutic conditions.