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Viability Assays for Cells in Culture
Published on: January 20, 2014
Analysis of cellular Mg2+ in DT40 cells
Anne-Laure Perraud1, Carsten Schmitz, Andrew M Scharenberg
1Dept. of Immunology, University of Colorado and National Jewish Medical and Research Center, Denver, CO, USA.
Sub-Cellular Biochemistry
|July 13, 2007
Summary
This study details methods for measuring total cellular magnesium (Mg2+) and net Mg2+ fluxes in continuously growing cells. These techniques are crucial for understanding cellular Mg2+ homeostasis.
Area of Science:
- Cellular Biology
- Biochemistry
- Physiology
Background:
- Magnesium ion (Mg2+) homeostasis is vital for cellular functions.
- Measuring Mg2+ dynamics in continuously growing cells presents challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe reliable laboratory protocols for quantifying cellular Mg2+.
- To present methods for measuring net Mg2+ fluxes over time.
Main Methods:
- Total cellular Mg2+ was measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometry.
- Net Mg2+ fluxes were determined using the stable isotope 26Mg.
Main Results:
- Established protocols allow for accurate measurement of total cellular Mg2+.
- Quantified net Mg2+ fluxes using a stable isotope tracer method.
Conclusions:
- The described methods enable robust assessment of Mg2+ homeostasis in proliferating cells.
- These protocols are essential for future research on cellular Mg2+ metabolism.

