The acronym HTS stands for High-Throughput Screening. It is a scientific method used in drug discovery and molecular biology to quickly test large numbers of chemical compounds or genetic material against biological targets.
HTS is a valuable tool in the field of pharmaceutical research as it allows researchers to process and analyze a large number of samples in a relatively short period of time. By using automation and robotics, HTS can test thousands or even millions of compounds against a specific target, such as a protein or enzyme.
One common application of HTS is in the search for new drug candidates. Pharmaceutical companies and research institutions can use HTS to rapidly screen libraries of compounds to identify potential drug leads. For example, a company may have a library of thousands of small molecules, and HTS can quickly test each compound to determine its activity against a specific disease target.
HTS typically involves several steps, including:
Assay Design: Researchers design an assay that measures the activity of the target molecule or pathway. This could involve using fluorescent markers, enzymes, or other techniques to detect changes in the target's behavior.
Compound Library: A collection of chemical compounds or genetic material is prepared for screening. These libraries can be sourced from commercially available compounds or synthesized in-house.
Automation: HTS relies heavily on automation and robotics to handle the large number of samples. Liquid handling robots dispense precise amounts of compounds and reagents, while plate readers and other instruments capture data.
Data Analysis: The data collected from the screening is analyzed using statistical methods and computational algorithms. Promising compounds are further tested and optimized.
References:
Waring, M. J., et al. (2015). An analysis of the attrition of drug candidates from four major pharmaceutical companies. Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 14(7), 475-486.
Macarron, R., et al. (2011). Impact of high-throughput screening in biomedical research. Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 10(3), 188-195.
Overall, HTS is a powerful technique that accelerates the process of drug discovery and biological research by rapidly screening large numbers of compounds. It has revolutionized the field and continues to play a crucial role in the development of new medicines.