Lumigen SPARCL® (Spatial Proximity Analyte Reagent Capture Luminescence) is a homogeneous, proximity-based chemiluminescent detection technology designed to measure specific molecular interactions without the need for solid supports or wash steps. The platform enables rapid, high-sensitivity immunoassays and binding assays by generating a flash of light when two labeled binding partners are brought into close spatial proximity through a specific interaction event.

In a SPARCL assay, one binding partner is labeled with an acridan chemiluminescent substrate and the second is labeled with horseradish peroxidase (HRP). When the two labeled molecules interact through antigen–antibody binding or other specific molecular associations, the acridan and HRP are positioned close enough to enable a triggered chemiluminescent reaction. Upon addition of the trigger solution, a rapid flash signal is produced that is directly proportional to the amount of analyte present.

Because SPARCL assays are performed in solution and do not require separation steps, the technology streamlines workflow and significantly reduces assay time. Both sandwich and competitive assay formats can be implemented, and the system can be adapted to solution-phase or solid-phase configurations. The elimination of wash steps improves throughput, reduces variability associated with surface binding, and enables assay miniaturization for high-throughput screening environments.

SPARCL technology mimics native solution-phase kinetics, allowing binding interactions to occur without the constraints of immobilization on a solid surface. This can enhance assay speed and accuracy while simplifying automation. The included background reducing agent further improves signal-to-noise performance, supporting sensitive detection across a broad dynamic range.

The Lumigen SPARCL Detection Kit provides the core reagents necessary to implement proximity-based chemiluminescent assays for applications including sandwich ELISA, competitive immunoassays, protein–protein interactions, protein–nucleic acid interactions, DNA–DNA binding studies, high-throughput screening assays, and selected cell-based assay formats.

Invented, developed, and manufactured by Lumigen, SPARCL represents a next-generation chemiluminescent platform for laboratories seeking faster workflows, simplified assay design, and high-sensitivity detection without wash steps.