This kit enables analysis of apoptosis based on caspase-3/7 activity and its consensus target sequence, Asp-Glu-Val-Asp (DEVD). Caspase-3 and caspase-7 are proteases that are activated during the execution phase of apoptosis. This kit provides a single-step, homogenous assay that is specifically designed for microplate readers. The fluorogenic substrate (Ac-DEVD)2-R110 contains two DEVD consensus target sequence and is completely hydrolyzed in cell lysate by the enzymes. Hydrolysis of both DEVD peptides releases the green fluorescent dye R110, resulting in a substantial fluorescence increase, with excitation at 490 nm and emission at 520 nm. The assay kit includes the competitive caspase-3/7 inhibitor Ac-DEVD-CHO for use as a negative control. R110 is also provided in the kit for generating a standard curve, which can be used for quantifying caspase-3 activity. 
 
Cell viability assays are critical to a broad spectrum of research areas ranging from investigation into the mechanisms of cell death to the development of new therapeutics targeting apoptosis in diseases. One of the most popular detection technologies for cell viability is a fluorescence microplate reader. The EarlyTox cell viability assay kits have been optimized for highly sensitive and accurate microplate detection which provides a complete solution for monitoring cell viability. 
 
• Optimal data quality for microplate reader assay 
• Simplified, homogeneous experimental protocol 
• Preconfigured SoftMax Pro Software protocols