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Measuring Cell Death by Trypan Blue Uptake and Light Microscopy.
Lisa C Crowley1, Brooke J Marfell1, Melinda E Christensen2
1Apoptosis and Cytotoxicity Laboratory, Mater Research, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia;
Cold Spring Harbor Protocols
|July 3, 2016
Summary
Trypan blue staining is a quick and easy method to determine cell viability. This assay allows researchers to count live and dead cells using light microscopy before experiments or after cytotoxic treatments.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Cell viability assessment is crucial in biological research.
- Accurate quantification of cell death informs experimental outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce trypan blue staining as a rapid and accessible method for cell viability assessment.
- To demonstrate its utility in pre-experiment screening and post-treatment analysis.
Main Methods:
- Utilizes trypan blue, a colorimetric dye, to differentiate between live and dead cells.
- Employs light microscopy and a hemocytometer for cell counting.
- Analysis is performed within minutes of staining.
Main Results:
- Dead cells are stained blue, while live cells remain unstained.
- Provides a clear visual distinction for easy enumeration.
- Enables rapid determination of the percentage of viable cells.
Conclusions:
- Trypan blue staining is a convenient and efficient assay for determining cell viability.
- It is suitable for routine use in cell culture and toxicology studies.
- The method supports informed decision-making in experimental design and data interpretation.
