High-Content Imaging Assays
Our high-content imaging (HCI) assays combine automated fluorescence microscopy with advanced image analysis to capture multi-dimensional cellular phenotypes—enabling quantitative evaluation of compound effects on cell morphology, subcellular localization, and molecular expression. This technology is a cornerstone of our drug discovery pipeline, providing unparalleled insights into flavivirus infection mechanisms and therapeutic candidate efficacy.
Core Imaging Capabilities
Multi-Parameter Phenotyping
Simultaneous quantification of 10+ cellular features (e.g., cell area, nuclear shape, fluorescence intensity) to capture complex phenotypic changes induced by compounds or viral infection.
Subcellular Localization Tracking
High-resolution imaging of target proteins (e.g., viral antigens, signaling molecules) with subcellular precision, enabling analysis of translocation events and organelle-specific effects.
3D Cellular Imaging
Z-stack acquisition and 3D reconstruction to study cell behavior in 3D cultures (e.g., spheroids, organoids) — mimicking in vivo microenvironments for more physiologically relevant results.
Time-Lapse Imaging
Long-term live-cell imaging (up to 72 hours) to monitor dynamic cellular processes, including viral replication kinetics, cell migration, and compound-induced temporal responses.
Imaging System Specifications
Assay Workflow
Cell Preparation & Staining
Seeding of target cells (e.g., Vero, Huh7) in multi-well plates, followed by treatment with compounds/virus and staining with target-specific fluorophores (e.g., DAPI for nuclei, Alexa Fluor-conjugated antibodies for viral proteins).
Automated Imaging
High-throughput image acquisition using automated confocal or widefield microscopy, with adaptive focus and exposure control to ensure consistent image quality across plates.
Image Analysis
AI-powered image segmentation and feature extraction (using tools like CellProfiler, ImageJ) to quantify cellular and subcellular phenotypes, with custom algorithms for flavivirus-specific readouts.
Data Integration
Correlation of imaging data with other assay readouts (e.g., cytotoxicity, viral titer) to generate multi-dimensional datasets for compound prioritization and mechanism-of-action studies.
Key Research Applications
Flavivirus Infection Profiling
Quantification of viral replication (via NS3/NS5 protein expression), host cell morphology changes, and immune cell infiltration to evaluate antiviral compound efficacy.
Phenotypic Screening
High-throughput screening of compound libraries to identify molecules that induce desired phenotypic changes (e.g., inhibition of viral assembly, restoration of normal cell morphology).
Mechanism of Action Studies
Analysis of target protein localization (e.g., nuclear translocation of transcription factors) and organelle integrity (e.g., mitochondrial health) to elucidate how compounds exert their effects.
Combination Therapy Testing
Evaluation of synergistic effects between multiple compounds using multi-parameter imaging, enabling optimization of combination treatment regimens.