Apoptosis Detection
Apoptosis detection refers to the methods used to identify programmed cell death, a crucial process in maintaining healthy tissues. This process helps eliminate damaged or unnecessary cells without causing inflammation. Various techniques, such as flow cytometry, TUNEL assay, and caspase activity assays, are employed to observe specific markers and changes in cells undergoing apoptosis.
These detection methods focus on identifying characteristic features of apoptosis, such as DNA fragmentation, changes in cell membrane integrity, and activation of specific enzymes. Understanding apoptosis is essential in fields like cancer research and developmental biology, as it plays a significant role in both normal development and disease progression.