Cytometric bead arrays (CBAs) represent a powerful tool in modern biomedical research, offering a solution-based, high-throughput method for detecting proteins using standard flow cytometry equipment. This technology leverages the principles of sandwich immunoassays, where capture antibodies are immobilized on beads to bind target proteins, and fluorescently labeled detection antibodies are used to visualize these captured proteins.
Cytometric bead arrays are designed to simultaneously analyze multiple proteins by utilizing different bead sizes and fluorophores. This multiplexing capability allows researchers to efficiently study complex biological systems with minimal sample volume.
Research Applications of Cytometric Bead Arrays
Cytometric bead arrays are versatile tools with a wide range of applications in biomedical research:
- High-Throughput Profiling of Cytokine Expression: Useful for studying immune responses and inflammation.
- Validation of Semi-Quantitative Antibody Array Results: Helps confirm findings from other array technologies.
- Identifying Molecular Targets for Drug Development: Facilitates the discovery of new therapeutic targets.
- Understanding Drug Mechanisms: Elucidates how drugs interact with biological systems.
- Disease Process Analysis: Identifies key factors involved in disease progression.
- Biomarker Discovery: Aids in finding markers for disease diagnosis and management.
- Molecular Classification of Diseases: Helps categorize diseases based on molecular expression patterns.