Assay Name
In Vitro Fluorescence Microscopy-based Apoptosis Assay
Assay Description
Excellent signal-to-noise ratios and good temporal and spatial resolutions in fluorescence microscopy have made this technique one of the most widely used microscopic techniques in cancer research. Owing to high spatial resolution in fluorescence microscopy, this has become an excellent technique to observe cell and tissue imaging and biological processes and unlike the other techniques (light microscopy and mass spectrometry), this technique has a good level of user selectivity.
Assay Type
Detection of Apoptosis Assays
Assay Type Details
Apoptosis (programmed cell death) plays a vital role in embryonic development, homeostasis, functioning of immune system and wound repair. The ability to evade induction of apoptosis has been used by cancer cells to survive against host defense mechanisms. The molecular mechanisms involved in cancer cell apoptosis have been well documented and it involves certain biochemical events such as DNA fragmentation, chromatin condensation, cell organelle degradation and protein cleavage, etc. The extrinsic and intrinsic (mitochondrial) pathways are the two major pathways involved in apoptosis. With the available techniques and assays, a number of apoptosis inducing agents (natural compounds, synthetic compounds, nano-formulations, peptides and enzymes) in many cancer cells have been identified. Selection of an assay for apoptosis detection is based on factors such as apoptotic pathway, nature of drug, cell type being used and the method of analysis.
Assay Subtype
Microscopic Techniques to Detect Apoptosis Assays
Assay MOA
Fluorescence Microscopy Assay