Using proven bioluminescent detection technology, these assays offer the researcher the highest sensitivity in anon-radioactive caspase assay
Two new assays developed to specifically detect caspase-8 and caspase-9 activity in apoptotic cells are now available from Promega.
Using proven bioluminescent detection technology, the Caspase-Glo 8 and 9 assays offer the researcher the highest sensitivity in anon-radioactive caspase assay.
Caspase-8 plays a key role in the initiation of the extrinsic apoptotic cascade, whereas caspase-9 is involved in the intrinsic apoptotic cascade. Research in these areas is focusing on the effects test compounds have on apoptosis or cell death since this has a clear value for therapeutic intervention.
Consequently, the new assays will be particularly useful for laboratories performing secondary screens and in vitro cytotoxic applications.
Both assays have a homogeneous 'add and read' format with no sample preparation or manipulation, and no extended incubation time. Results can be obtained in as little as 15 minutes with signal maintained for up to three hours allowing batch processing of assays.
The assays are therefore readily adaptable to automated HTS applications in 96- and 384-well configurations.
High sensitivity is conferred by the Ultra-Glo recombinant luciferase. Using bioluminescence avoids interference from the inherent fluorescence signal of test compounds.
The high sensitivity also means a reduced requirement for purified caspase or test compounds, hence decreasing assay costs.
The Caspase-Glo 8 and 9 assays use luminogenic substrates containing the LETD and LEHD sequences respectively.
These have been shown to be selective for caspase-8 (LETD) and caspase-9 (LEHD).
These new assays complement the existing Caspase-Glo 3/7 assay so that Promega now offers a family of assays for detection of caspase activity.
All of these products are part of a broad range of assays aimed at apoptosis, cell viability and cytotoxicity.
