ELISpot
The ELISpot (Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSpot) assay is a highly sensitive colorimetric technique, widely considered the gold standard for quantifying the secretion of cytokines, chemokines, or antibodies at the single-cell level for both B-cells and T-cells. As a preclinical CRO, we offer a comprehensive and integrated service: from in-house collection and processing of blood and tissues (e.g., spleen, lymph nodes, bone marrow) to assay execution and data analysis. Additionally, we offer standalone automated plate reading for external laboratories.
Plate acquisition and spot counting are performed using a Mabtech Astor reader, providing standardized and automated evaluation. The assay is applicable to translational studies involving murine models (mice and rats), large animals (such as pigs, horses, bovines, and goats), and human clinical blood samples too.
Applications
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Vaccine Development and Testing | Evaluation of both cellular and humoral immunity. T-cell ELISpot is used to quantify antigen-specific cytokine secretion (e.g., IFN-γ, IL-2) and assess Th1/Th2 polarization. B-cell ELISpot is applied to enumerate antigen-specific antibody-secreting cells (ASCs). |
| Immuno-Oncology | Primarily utilizing T-cell ELISpot to evaluate the activation and functionality of cytotoxic T cells and NK cells against tumor antigens. Used to test the efficacy of cell therapies, monoclonal antibodies, or immune checkpoint inhibitors. |
| Autoimmune Diseases and Inflammation | Profiling the inflammatory response via T-cell ELISpot (quantifying specific cytokine-secreting cells, such as IL-17 or TNF-α) and assessing autoreactive antibody production via B-cell ELISpot in animal models or human patient samples. |
| Immunogenicity Studies | Analysis of unwanted immune responses induced by biologics such as monoclonal antibodies or viral vectors (e.g., gene therapy). This includes T-cell ELISpot to evaluate cellular reactivity and B-cell ELISpot to detect cells producing anti-drug antibodies (ADAs). |
| Allergy and Hypersensitivity Responses | Evaluation of allergen-specific immune responses. T-cell ELISpot is utilized to quantify Th2-type cytokine secretion (e.g., IL-4, IL-5, IL-13), while B-cell ELISpot is applied to detect IgE-secreting cells or other specific antibody isotypes directed against the target antigen. |
| External Plate Reading (Standalone Service) | Automated acquisition and objective spot counting for pre-developed T-cell and B-cell ELISpot plates provided by external universities, research centers, or laboratories. This leverages the long-term stability of developed plates when stored protected from light. |
Key Features
- Automated Plate Reading: Objective and reproducible spot counting using the Mabtech Astor reader
- Flexible Analysis Services: Reading and analysis of pre-developed plates from external laboratories
- In-house Sample Processing: Tissue and blood processing performed on-site to preserve cell viability
- Cross-species Expertise: Validated workflows for rodents, large animals, and human PBMCs
- Single-Cell Sensitivity: Detection of rare cytokine- and antibody-secreting cells at single-cell resolution