During apoptosis, cells activate certain DNA endonucleases that cleave genomic DNA between nucleosomes. When DNA is extracted from apoptotic cells and analyzed by electrophoresis, a characteristic DNA ladder of ~180–200 bp fragments can be observed.

The TUNEL (TdT-mediated dUTP Nick-End Labeling) Apoptosis Detection Kit (YSFluor™ 488) is designed to detect DNA fragmentation in the nuclei of cells during late-stage apoptosis. The principle is based on the enzymatic activity of Terminal Deoxynucleotidyl Transferase (TdT), which catalyzes the incorporation of YSFluor™ 488-12-dUTP into the 3′-hydroxyl (3′-OH) ends of fragmented DNA. The labeled DNA can then be visualized using a fluorescence microscope or analyzed by flow cytometry.

YSFluor™ 488 offers higher photostability and stronger fluorescence intensity compared to conventional dyes, resulting in brighter labeling and enhanced resistance to photobleaching.

This kit is broadly applicable and can be used to detect apoptosis in:

Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue sections; Frozen tissue sections; Cultured adherent or suspension cells.

Features

• Broad applicability: Suitable for apoptosis detection in frozen or paraffin-embedded tissue sections, as well as in adherent and suspension cell cultures.
• High sensitivity and specificity: Accurately distinguishes apoptotic cells from necrotic or normal cells through fluorescent labeling of DNA breaks.
• Bright and stable fluorescence: YSFluor™ 488 provides strong green fluorescence with excellent photostability, ensuring clear and reproducible imaging.
• Simple and rapid protocol: Streamlined workflow for convenient use in various experimental setups.
• Compatible with multiple detection platforms: Applicable to fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, and high-content imaging systems.

Components

Storage

Shipped on wet ice.

Store the entire kit at –25~-15°C. The YSFluor™ 488-12-dUTP Labeling Mix must be protected from light and stored at –20°C. The kit is stable for 1 year under these conditions.

Notes

1. Users must prepare the following reagents:

PBS for cell washing

Antifade mounting medium for microscopy

4% paraformaldehyde (in PBS) for fixation

2. For safety and hygiene, wear a lab coat and disposable gloves during handling.

3. This product is for research use only!

Documents:

Safety Data Sheet

40307-A-TUNEL Apoptosis Detection Kit (Alexa Fluor 488)-MSDS-HB220805.pdf

40307-B-TUNEL Apoptosis Detection Kit (Alexa Fluor 488)-MSDS-HB220805.pdf

40307-C-TUNEL Apoptosis Detection Kit (Alexa Fluor 488)-MSDS-HB220805.pdf

40307-D-TUNEL Apoptosis Detection Kit (Alexa Fluor 488)-MSDS-HB220805.pdf

40307-E-TUNEL Apoptosis Detection Kit (Alexa Fluor 488)-MSDS-HB220805.pdf

40307-F-TUNEL Apoptosis Detection Kit (Alexa Fluor 488)-MSDS-HB220805.pdf

Manuals

40307-Manual-Ver.EN20251111.pdf

Publications Using This Product

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