Apoptotic Cell Isolation Kit

The Apoptotic Cell Isolation Kit provides a simple and efficient means for isolation of apoptotic cells or removal of dead cells from cell culture or tissue preparations using annexin V/magnetic beads (MagBeads). Annexin V is a Ca²ᶧ-dependent phospholipid binding protein with high affinity for phosphatidylserine (PS), which is redistributed from the inner to the outer plasma membrane leaflet in apoptotic or dead cells. Once on the cell surface, PS becomes available for binding to annexin V and any of its conjugates. Binding of annexin V-biotin to apoptotic cells followed by binding of the biotin to streptavidin-MagBeads enables separation of apoptotic cells from living cells. The apoptotic cells bound to the MagBeads adhere to the magnet, while nonapoptotic cells stay in suspension. The separated apoptotic and healthy cells can then be used in a variety of assays to study apoptotic mechanisms and pathways. The kit has also been successfully used to remove dead cells from healthy cell culture.