QC metrics by variables (Am, PV/HM and VI) expressed as robust Z′factor and (SSMD) values.

To validate the robustness of controls in each plate, the QC metrics were performed for each variable using different controls depending on the biological readout i.e. leishmanicidal activity or toxicity on host cells: C− (64 and 24 wells for P1–P4 and P5–P9, respectively)/C+ (n = 20) for (Am) and (PV/HM) variables and C− (n = 24)/C† (n = 20) for (VI). Of note is the fact that the QC metrics for the VI variable was only available in the P5–P9 when the C† control was included (NA: not applicable).