Caspase Activity Assays

Are the Caspase Activity Assays quantitative?

The Caspase Activity Assays are considered semi-quantitative. The results are best used to determine a fold increase in the Caspase activity in apoptotic cells over that of non-induced cells. The use of a background control (reactions where no cell lysate or substrate is added) is preferred. If this control gives a substantial reading, it should be subtracted from the experimental results prior to calculating the fold increase.

How are the Caspase Activity Assays used?

Caspase Activity Assays provide a onvenient means for assaying protease activity in cell lysates. Upon cleavage of the Caspase-specific peptide substrate, a free reporter molecule can be quantified using a colorimetric or fluorometric microtiter plate reader. Comparison of the signal generated from an apoptotic sample with an uninduced control allows determination of the fold increase in Caspase activity. The level of Caspase activity is directly proportional to the signal detected.

Is the cell lysis buffer provided in the Caspase Activity Assay the same for all kits?

Yes, the cell lysis buffer supplied is supplied is the same for all Caspase Activity Kits. Therefore, cells can be lysed at one time, then used in multiple Caspase Activity Assays.