The process of drug discovery is complex, expensive, and time-consuming. One critical step in the drug discovery process is high-throughput screening (HTS), which involves screening large libraries of compounds quickly and efficiently to identify promising candidates for further development. There are three main types of HTS campaigns: low-, medium-, and high-throughput screening. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between these three types of screening.
Low-throughput screening
Low-throughput screening (LTS) is the traditional method of drug discovery, which involves manual testing of individual compounds. LTS is a labor-intensive and time-consuming process that limits the number of compounds that can be screened. However, LTS is still an essential tool in drug discovery because it is often used to validate hits from high-throughput screening campaigns.
Medium-throughput screening
Medium-throughput screening (MTS) involves the use of automated high-content screening platforms that allow for the screening of a larger number of compounds than LTS. MTS typically involves screening up to 100,000 compounds, making it ideal for drug discovery projects with a smaller budget or a more focused target.
High-throughput screening
High-throughput screening (HTS) is the most advanced and efficient method of drug discovery. HTS involves using automated platforms to screen millions of compounds quickly and efficiently, allowing for the identification of promising lead compounds faster than LTS or MTS. HTS is also more costly than the other two methods of screening, making it more suitable for larger drug discovery projects.
In conclusion, the choice of HTS strategy depends on the specific needs of the drug discovery project. Low-throughput screening is still a valuable tool for validating hits from other screening methods, while medium-throughput screening is ideal for smaller drug discovery projects with a limited budget. High-throughput screening, on the other hand, enables fast and efficient screening of a large number of compounds and is most suitable for larger drug discovery projects with a larger budget.