Assay

An assay is a laboratory test or analytical procedure designed to detect, identify, and quantify the presence of a specific substance or component in a sample. It is commonly used in various fields, including pharmaceuticals, biochemistry, environmental science, and clinical diagnostics.

The primary objective of an assay is to provide accurate and precise measurements of the substance of interest within the sample. The substance being measured could be a drug substance, a biomolecule, a chemical compound, a pathogen, or any other analyte of interest. The assay may be qualitative, providing a simple “yes” or “no” answer about the presence of the substance, or quantitative, determining the exact amount or concentration of the substance in the sample.

Assays play a vital role in research, quality control, and clinical diagnosis. They provide valuable information for understanding biological processes, evaluating the effectiveness of drugs, monitoring disease progression, and ensuring the safety and compliance of various products and processes. Accurate and reliable assay results are essential for making informed decisions in various scientific, medical, and industrial settings.