Dual-fluorescence cell viability assay using ethidium homodimer and calcein AM

摘要

This invention relates to a method for simultaneously detecting live and dead cells using two fluorogenic reagents: calcein AM and ethidium homodimer. Live cells are distinguished by an intense uniform green fluorescence generated by the enzymatic hydrolysis of calcein AM: ##STR1## Dead or damaged cells are distinguished by a bright red fluorescence resulting from nucleic acids stained with ethidium homodimer: ##STR2## The assay is useful to determine cell viability and to monitor cytotoxicity agents or events.