Bioluminescence assays: multicolor luciferase assay, secreted luciferase assay and imaging luciferase assay.

IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD: By selecting the most appropriate bioluminescence assay, the researcher can study the underlying molecular mechanisms of a physiological system and the effects of a drug throughout the body. AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW: This review covers three luciferase assay systems: the multicolor luciferase assay, secreted luciferase assay and imaging luciferase assay. These assays are applied to drug screening in vitro, in cellulo and in vivo. WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN: Different solutions for reporter assay in vitro, in cellulo and in vivo are presented. A suitable bioluminescence system depending on the assay purpose is also discussed. TAKE HOME MESSAGE: Bioluminescence is a manifold system based on the different types of luciferin and its luciferase. Namely, luciferin catalyzed by corresponding luciferases resulted in the production of different color lights. We must understand the manifold mechanisms of bioluminescence reaction.