Analysis of DNA Fragmentation Using Agarose Gel Electrophoresis Shailaja Kasibhatla et al. This protocol provides a qualitative method for assessing cell death by detecting DNA fragments using agarose gel electrophoresis. One of the classic features of apoptosis is the cleavage of the genomic DNA into oligonucleosomal fragments represented by multiples of 180-200 bp. Visualizing these fragments can aid in characterizing an apoptotic event. May be combined with more quantitative methods. - [Read Analysis of DNA Fragmentation Using Agarose Gel Electrophoresis (Subscription Required)]
Analysis of DNA Fragmentation Using the JAM Assay. By Shailaja Kasibhatla et al., The JAM assay is based on labeling nuclear DNA of cycling cells with [3H]thymidine and harvesting samples on glass fiber filters. Apoptosis will generate DNA fragments small enough to pass through the glass fiber filter, resulting in decreased radioactivity of the particular sample. Cell-mediated cytotoxicity or cell killing mediated by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) can also be measured by this technique. - [Read Analysis Of DNA Fragmentation Using The JAM Assay (Subscription Required)]
Detection of Phosphatidylserine Externalization During Apoptosis. Shailaja Kasibhatla et al. An early event in apoptosis is the externalization of phosphatidylserine (PS), a phospholipid normally restricted to the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane. This apoptotic event can be monitored using Annexin V, a PS-specific binding protein. This protocol uses Annexin V-FITC as a probe, but Annexin V-biotin is also available, and binding can be revealed using streptavidin-FITC or oth - [Read Detection Of Phosphatidylserine Externalization During Apoptosis (Subscription Required)]
Leukostat Staining of Cytospin Preparations to Detect Apoptosis. Shailaja Kasibhatla et al. Leukostat staining is used to visualize nuclear changes and apoptotic body formation that are characteristic of apoptosis. Cells are viewed under a light microscope and counted to quantify apoptosis. This protocol can be used both for cells that grow in suspension and for adherent cells. - [Read Leukostat Staining of Cytospin Preparations to Detect Apoptosis]