During the process of apoptosis, DNA fragmentation occurs following the activation of endonucleases. The labeling of the 3’ ends of DNA fragments provides an easy measure of cells undergoing apoptosis. Modified nucleotides are incorporated at the 3’ ends by the activity of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT).
The TiterTACS Colorimetric Apoptosis Detection Kit is a TUNEL based assay utilizing specific in situ labeling technology that enables a 96 well microplate format for high throughput quantitative detection of apoptosis. TiterTACS can be used with suspension or monolayer cells. The kit is designed to use fixed samples, allowing you to work safely with samples that are infected with biohazardous agents. Fixed samples may be stored conveniently during time-course experiments. The TiterTACS Kit also provides TACS-Nuclease solution to generate positive controls from your own samples giving you a maximal value for the assay.
Detection using TACS-Sapphire, a non-toxic colorimetric substrate, allows both kinetic and endpoint readings. The reaction generates a blue product that can be measured at 630 nm, and will turn yellow after the reaction is stopped with acid allowing endpoint reading at 450 nm.