Live-Dead Cell Staining Kit II (Calcein AM/EthD-III)
Live-Dead Cell Staining Kit II (Calcein AM/EthD-III) is used for simultaneous fluorescence staining of live and dead mammalian cells. This kit contains two probes, Calcein AM and EthD-III. Calcein AM is a live-cell probe, which is highly lipophilic and cell permeable. Calcein AM itself is no-fluorescent, but it is hydrolyzed into green-fluorescent Calcein by esterase in the viable cells. On the other hand, EthD-III is a dead cell probe that can only pass through damaged cell membranes and stain the nucleus red. The fluorescence intensity of these two probes can reflect cell viability and toxicity.
The kit is sensitive, quick and easy to use. Meanwhile, EthD-III in this kit has a higher quantum yield and affinity than the traditional probe PI for detecting dead cells. However, Calcein AM does not penetrate the cell walls of bacteria or fungi, so this kit is not suited for bacteria or fungi.
Figure 1: The effect of this kit for the detection of live/dead cells
| Components | K2248-500T |
| Calcein AM (4 mM) | 50 μL |
| EthD-III (2.5 mM) | 120 μL |
| PBS | 2 x 120 mL |
Store the kit at -20°C, stable for 1 year. The Calcein AM (4 mM) and EthD-III (2.5 mM) should be stored away from light and moisture, avoiding repeated freeze/thaw cycles. | |