Cell Proliferation Using Flow Cytometry

Cell proliferation analyses are crucial for cell growth and differentiation studies, and are often used to evaluate both compound toxicity and inhibition of tumor cell growth during drug development. Proliferation measurements are typically made based on average DNA content or on cellular metabolism parameters. Assays can report either total or live cell numbers, or measure DNA synthesis in single cells.

Invitrogen Molecular Probes cell proliferation assays can be used individually or together to monitor cell health and cell division by evaluating DNA synthesis, monitoring mitotic phases, or tracking population doubling.

See also imaging assays for cell proliferation

DNA synthesis measurment
The Invitrogen Click-iT EdU and Plus EdU cell proliferation assays utilize the power of click chemistry and the modified nucleoside EdU to provide a superior alternative to BrdU staining for detecting and quantitating newly synthesized DNA.

• Accuracy—superior to BrdU assays with minimal variation (low CVs)
• Simplicity—streamlined five-step protocol
• Compatibility—assays allow users to multiplex with GFP, mCherry, APC, PerCP, PE, and other fluorophores (Click-iT Plus EdU kits only)

Dye dilution assays for cell proliferation
Invitrogen CellTrace fluorescent stains are membrane–permeant fluorescent molecules that are retained within the cells through subsequent rounds of cell division, with each daughter cell receiving approximately half of the fluorescence of the parent. CellTrace fluorescent stains can be used without affecting morphology or physiology to trace generations in vivo or in vitro.

• Long-term signal stability—well-retained in cells for several days post-stain
• Noncytotoxic—no known effect on proliferative ability or biology of cells