Overview
Bioluminescent reagent system for rapid quantitation of firelfy and Ranilla luciferase reporter gene expression in transfected cells. The assay uses Luminescence for signal readout. Compatible sample input includes Cells etc. Typical stated assay timing is 20 min.
Key elements and design rationale
- Readout format: Luminescence supports plate-based signal acquisition and consistent comparison across matched samples.
- Sample compatibility: The stated sample scope includes Cells etc, which is useful when aligning matrix type with calibration and control design.
- Analytical range context: The supplied specifications include a stated detection limit of 2 fg luciferase for interpreting low-signal samples.
- Feature emphasis: High sensitivity and wide detection range. Detection of as little as 2 fg luciferase.
Additional feature notes highlight Compatible with routine laboratory and HTS formats. Assays can be performed in tubes or microplates, and measured with any luminometer. Can be readily automated on HTS liquid handling systems; Fast and convenient. Three-step assay allows the detection of dual luciferase levels within 20 minutes. Available format information for this listing includes 100 Tests.
Biological background
This product is centered on measurement of superlight dual luciferase reporter gene within the matrices described for the assay. In practice, datasets from this type of format are typically interpreted by comparing relative signal, activity, or abundance across matched control and experimental groups rather than relying on a single value in isolation. Careful alignment of sample matrix, incubation window, and calibration strategy is important when comparing results across plates, operators, or study days.
More details
The accuracy of reporter assays can be improved by utilizing a dual reporter system. One of the reporter genes is correlated with the promoter of interest and is used to assess the effects of specific experimental conditions, while the second reporter is used as a control and serves as a baseline response. The SuperLight™ Dual-Luciferase Reporter Gene Assay allows for the sequential measurement of the activity of two different luciferases, firefly (FFL) and Renilla (RL), in a single sample. The firefly luciferase luminescence is measured first by the addition of the FFL Reagent. Next, the RL Reagent is added to the same well. The RL Reagent simultaneously quenches the firefly luciferase luminescence and initiates the Renilla luciferase reaction. The light production of both reactions can be conveniently measured on a luminometer. This bioluminescent dual reporter gene assay is extremely sensitive and is especially suitable for quantifying dual luciferase expression in recombinant cells or in cell-free transcription/translation reactions. Assays can be performed in tubes, cuvettes, or multi-well plates.
Detection method
Luminescence.
Detection limit and analytical sensitivity
Reported detection limit: 2 fg luciferase.
Procedures and timing
Stated procedure or timing information: 20 min.
Research relevance and current trends
- Plate-based quantification and side-by-side group comparison remain central use cases for this assay format.
- The product notes emphasize multi-sample throughput, making it relevant for screening-oriented and larger batch comparison studies.
- Short assay timing and plate compatibility support time-course or repeated-measure collection plans when handling is kept consistent.
Common research applications
- Quantify reporter or luminescence output in cells by Luminescence readout.
- Compare perturbation-dependent signal changes across matched sample groups.
- Monitor reporter time-courses following stimulation, inhibition, or media changes.
Interpretation is usually strongest when signal changes are assessed alongside matrix-matched controls, replicate agreement, and the assay's stated analytical window.
Notes for experimental interpretation
- Matrix composition, background signal, and sample handling can influence apparent response; compare like-with-like whenever possible.
- Use appropriate blanks, controls, and replicate wells to distinguish biological differences from plate, reagent, or handling variability.
For laboratories requiring additional technical capacity, we provide scientific support services including assay execution, method guidance, product sourcing, and customization to align the assay with specific experimental objectives. If you need assistance selecting the appropriate kit configuration, adapting the workflow to your application, or identifying related research services, please click Talk to a Scientist, email support@biohippo.com, or review our Research Services; a member of our scientific team will follow up with recommendations tailored to your study.
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