Assay Name
In Vitro TUNEL-based DNA Fragmentation Assay (Apoptosis )
Short Description
TALL-104-cell based In Vitro TUNEL-based DNA Fragmentation Assay (Apoptosis )
Assay Description
The enzyme TdT catalyzes the addi tion of labeled dUTP (fluorescent) to the 3'-OH DNA termini gener ated by the enzyme cellular endonuclease. DNA breaks can also be detected by FCM or fluorescence microscopy.
Assay Alternative Names
Terminal Deoxynucleotidyl Transferase (TdT)-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL)
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
DNA Fragmentation and Damage Assays
Assay MOA
DNA Fragmentation Assay