LX-2 Cell-based Antagonist Assay Service
Introduction
Liver fibrosis, characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, underscores a critical medical challenge due to its progression into cirrhosis and potential for liver failure. Despite significant efforts, there remains a paucity of effective antifibrotic therapies. Research focuses on pathways involving hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), a pivotal cell type inducing fibrosis. Creative Biolabs has pioneered the integration of LX-2 cell-based antagonist assays to elucidate and counteract hepatic fibrosis mechanisms.
LX-2 Cell-based Antagonist Assays at Creative Biolabs
At Creative Biolabs, we have leveraged the immortal LX-2 cell line, a human HSC line, to develop advanced antagonist assays aimed at evaluating potential antifibrotic compounds. LX-2 cells preserve the functional characteristics of in vivo HSCs and are used to screen inhibitors effectively through high-content analyses. These assays provide precise quantifications of the fibrogenic responses and antagonistic effects of test compounds, solidifying our position at the forefront of fibrosis research.
Service Content
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Comprehensive Assay Design
Our LX-2 cell-based assays are meticulously designed to simulate the pathogenic conditions of liver fibrosis. The assays involve culturing standard LX-2 cells, followed by selective starvation and induction with profibrotic agents like TGF-β1. The procedure involves:
Cell Culture: Seeding LX-2 cells in appropriate conditions to ensure high viability and responsiveness.
Starvation and Induction: Starving the cells to synchronize cellular activities and subsequently inducing fibrosis using TGF-β1.
Compound Screening: Treating with various concentrations of test compounds and evaluating their potential to inhibit fibrogenic signaling.
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High-Throughput Screening
Creative Biolabs employs a high-throughput screening approach allowing the simultaneous evaluation of multiple candidates. This methodology involves the use of automated systems to analyze cellular responses with high precision, high-content imaging for capturing detailed morphological changes, and fluorescence quantification to measure ECM protein expression, such as collagen type I.
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Data Analysis and Interpretation
We ensure robust data analysis using advanced software, which provides comprehensive analytical capabilities. The data is critically evaluated to determine the efficacy of antagonistic compounds, using parameters like percentage inhibition of collagen synthesis compared to controls.
Application of LX-2 Cell-based Antagonist Assays
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Identifying Hepatic Fibrosis Inhibitors
Creative Biolabs employs LX-2 cell-based assays to screen a wide array of compounds, including FDA-approved drugs, in search of effective hepatic fibrosis inhibitors.
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Evaluating Drug Efficacy and Mechanisms
Beyond identifying potential inhibitors, our assays assess the compounds' mechanisms, including their impact on α-SMA and F-actin expression within LX-2 and endothelial cells.
Related Services
Creative Biolabs extends its expertise in fibrosis research with allied services such as:
Automated Imaging and Analysis Platforms
Our advanced imaging systems and software provide detailed insights into cell behavior under various experimental conditions.
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3D Multicellular Spheroid Models
These models mimic the complex hepatic microenvironment, ideal for studying epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT).
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Highlights of Our Service
At Creative Biolabs, we pride ourselves on offering advanced and reliable LX-2 cell-based antagonist assays. Key highlights of our service include:
High-throughput Screening
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Our integrated platforms allow for rapid and effective screening of large compound libraries.
Cutting-edge Imaging Technology
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We employ the latest in high-content imaging and analysis to provide detailed and accurate results.
Comprehensive Data Analysis
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We provide thorough analysis and detailed reporting, helping to translate in vitro findings into potential clinical applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What makes the LX-2 cell line ideal for fibrosis studies?
A1: LX-2 cells mirror key in vivo phenotypic traits of HSCs, including response to TGF-β1 and cytokine signaling, making them ideal for fibrosis studies.
Q2: What types of compounds can be screened using this assay?
A2: A wide range of potential antifibrotic compounds including small molecules, peptides, and biologicals can be screened.
Creative Biolabs is committed to advancing the understanding and treatment of liver fibrosis through our cutting-edge LX-2 cell-based antagonist assays. Our dedication to scientific excellence and innovation places us at the forefront of fibrosis research, driving the discovery of efficacious antifibrotic therapies.
For Research Use Only | Not For Clinical Use