Two-color nuclear staining assay for cell viability
This kit can be used to quickly and easily determine the viability of cells. NucBlue Live reagent stains the nuclei of all cells, while NucGreen Dead reagent stains only the nuclei of dead cells.
This protocol can be used for:
- Identifying live and dead cells using a fluorescence microscope
This protocol should not be used for:
- Flow cytometry
You will need the following for this protocol:
- Cells growing in culture
- ReadyProbes Cell Viability Imaging Kit, Blue/Green (Cat. No. R37609)
- Fluorescence microscope with DAPI and FITC filters
Protocol
1. Culture cells in appropriate medium and vessel for microscopy |
2. Add 2 drops each NucBlue Live and NucGreen Dead reagents per milliliter of medium to label cells |
3. Incubate 5–30 minutes |
4. Image cells |
Spectral information and storage
NucBlue Live | NucGreen Dead | |
---|---|---|
Excitation/Emission | 360/460 nm | 504/523 nm |
Standard filter set | DAPI | FITC/GFP |
EVOS Light Cube | DAPI | GFP |
Storage conditions | Room temperature | Room temperature |
Protocol tips
- In some cases, more or fewer drops may be needed to achieve optimal staining intensity
- Image quality may be improved by replacing media with Live Cell Imaging Solution (Cat. No. A14291DJ)