---
title: Tracking Cell Death with Apoptosis Assays from Elabscience®
description: "Analyze apoptosis with precision: Discover Annexin V, Caspase, TUNEL, and JC-1 assays from Elabscience® for your cell research."
image: https://resources.biomol.com/hubfs/Biomol/Blog%20Images/2026/202602%20-%20Apoptose%20Assays%20(Elabscience)/Elabscience_Apoptosis_Preview.jpg
---

en

 EN  DE 

[**  My account ](https://www.biomol.com/account)

** Service/Help

- [Contact](https://www.biomol.com/contact)
- [Technical Service](https://www.biomol.com/technical-service)
- [FAQ](https://www.biomol.com/faq)
- [Shipping Costs](https://www.biomol.com/shipping-costs)
- [Product Search Tips](https://www.biomol.com/product-search-tips)
- [Distributors](https://www.biomol.com/distributors)
- [Company History](https://www.biomol.com/company-history)
- Cookie Settings

<https://www.biomol.com/>

- [** Menu ](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tracking-cell-death-with-apoptosis-assays-from-elabscience#offcanvas--left)
- [**Search Tips ](https://www.biomol.com/product-search-tips)
- [** Search ](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tracking-cell-death-with-apoptosis-assays-from-elabscience#show-hide--search)
  
  ** Search
  
   
- [** ](https://www.biomol.com/product-search-tips)
- [**  My account ](https://www.biomol.com/account)

- [Products ](https://www.biomol.com/products/)
- [Suppliers ](https://www.biomol.com/suppliers/)
- [Resources ](https://www.biomol.com/resources/)
- [Promotions ](https://www.biomol.com/promotions/)
- [About Biomol ](https://www.biomol.com/about-biomol/)

- [**  My account ](https://www.biomol.com/account)

[** To category Products ](https://www.biomol.com/products/) **

- [Antibodies](https://www.biomol.com/products/antibodies/) 
    - [Primary Antibodies](https://www.biomol.com/products/antibodies/primary-antibodies/)
    - [Secondary Antibodies](https://www.biomol.com/products/antibodies/secondary-antibodies/)
    - [Igs and Isotype Controls](https://www.biomol.com/products/antibodies/igs-and-isotype-controls/)
    - [Antibody Panels](https://www.biomol.com/products/antibodies/antibody-panels/)
- [Assay Kits](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/) 
    - [ELISA and Immunoassays](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/elisa-and-immunoassays/)
    - [Biochemical Assays](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/biochemical-assays/)
    - [Cell-Based Assays](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/cell-based-assays/)
- [Biological Samples](https://www.biomol.com/products/biological-samples/) 
    - [Cells](https://www.biomol.com/products/biological-samples/cells/)
    - [Virus-based Tools](https://www.biomol.com/products/biological-samples/virus-based-tools/)
    - [Lysates](https://www.biomol.com/products/biological-samples/lysates/)
    - [Nucleic Acids](https://www.biomol.com/products/biological-samples/nucleic-acids/)
    - [Blood Products](https://www.biomol.com/products/biological-samples/blood-products/)
    - [Tissues](https://www.biomol.com/products/biological-samples/tissues/)
    - [Other](https://www.biomol.com/products/biological-samples/other/)
- [Chemicals](https://www.biomol.com/products/chemicals/) 
    - [Biochemicals](https://www.biomol.com/products/chemicals/biochemicals/)
    - [Lipids](https://www.biomol.com/products/chemicals/lipids/)
    - [Reference Standards](https://www.biomol.com/products/chemicals/reference-standards/)
    - [Dyes and Labeling Reagents](https://www.biomol.com/products/chemicals/dyes-and-labeling-reagents/)
    - [Antibiotics](https://www.biomol.com/products/chemicals/antibiotics/)
    - [Biological Buffers](https://www.biomol.com/products/chemicals/biological-buffers/)
    - [Detergents](https://www.biomol.com/products/chemicals/detergents/)
    - [CpG ODNs](https://www.biomol.com/products/chemicals/cpg-odns/)
    - [Screening Libraries](https://www.biomol.com/products/chemicals/screening-libraries/)
- [Plasmids](https://www.biomol.com/products/plasmids/) 
    - [cDNA Clones](https://www.biomol.com/products/plasmids/cdna-clones/)
    - [Other](https://www.biomol.com/products/plasmids/other/)
- [Primers](https://www.biomol.com/products/primers/) 
    - [qPCR Gene Primers](https://www.biomol.com/products/primers/qpcr-gene-primers/)
    - [qPCR Gene Family Primers](https://www.biomol.com/products/primers/qpcr-gene-family-primers/)
    - [qPCR Control Gene Primers](https://www.biomol.com/products/primers/qpcr-control-gene-primers/)
    - [qPCR Primer Libraries](https://www.biomol.com/products/primers/qpcr-primer-libraries/)
- [Proteins and Peptides](https://www.biomol.com/products/proteins-and-peptides/) 
    - [Proteins](https://www.biomol.com/products/proteins-and-peptides/proteins/)
    - [Cytokines](https://www.biomol.com/products/proteins-and-peptides/cytokines/)
    - [Peptides](https://www.biomol.com/products/proteins-and-peptides/peptides/)
- [Toolkits](https://www.biomol.com/products/toolkits/) 
    - [Kit Components](https://www.biomol.com/products/toolkits/kit-components/)
    - [Conjugation Kits](https://www.biomol.com/products/toolkits/conjugation-kits/)
    - [Sample Prep Kits](https://www.biomol.com/products/toolkits/sample-prep-kits/)
    - [Cloning and Expression Kits](https://www.biomol.com/products/toolkits/cloning-and-expression-kits/)
    - [Mutagenesis Kits](https://www.biomol.com/products/toolkits/mutagenesis-kits/)
    - [Sequencing Kits](https://www.biomol.com/products/toolkits/sequencing-kits/)
- [Accessory Reagents](https://www.biomol.com/products/accessory-reagents/) 
    - [Staining Solutions](https://www.biomol.com/products/accessory-reagents/staining-solutions/)
    - [Cell Culture Media](https://www.biomol.com/products/accessory-reagents/cell-culture-media/)
    - [Agaroses](https://www.biomol.com/products/accessory-reagents/agaroses/)
    - [Stabilizers](https://www.biomol.com/products/accessory-reagents/stabilizers/)
    - [Protein Markers](https://www.biomol.com/products/accessory-reagents/protein-markers/)
    - [DNA Ladders](https://www.biomol.com/products/accessory-reagents/dna-ladders/)
    - [Transfection Reagents](https://www.biomol.com/products/accessory-reagents/transfection-reagents/)

[** To category Products ](https://www.biomol.com/products/) **

- [AAT Bioquest](https://www.biomol.com/aat-bioquest/)
- [Abcore](https://www.biomol.com/abcore/)
- [Absea](https://www.biomol.com/absea/)
- [Acepix Biosciences](https://www.biomol.com/acepix/)
- [AdipoGen Life Sciences](https://www.biomol.com/adipogen/)
- [Akadeum Life Sciences](https://www.biomol.com/akadeum-life-sciences/)
- [Alithea Genomics](https://www.biomol.com/alithea-genomics/)
- [Amsbio](https://www.biomol.com/amsbio/)
- [Ancell](https://www.biomol.com/ancell/)
- [Arigo Biolaboratories](https://www.biomol.com/arigo/)
- [Assay Genie](https://www.biomol.com/assay-genie/)
- [AssayQuant](https://www.biomol.com/assayquant/)
- [Atlas Antibodies](https://www.biomol.com/atlas-antibodies/)
- [Badische Peptide & Proteine](https://www.biomol.com/bpp/)
- [Bertin Bioreagent](https://www.biomol.com/bertin-bioreagent/)
- [Bethyl Laboratories](https://www.biomol.com/bethyl/)
- [Biomol GmbH](https://www.biomol.com/biomol-gmbh/)
- [Biotium](https://www.biomol.com/biotium/)
- [BPS Bioscience](https://www.biomol.com/bps/)
- [Cavidi](https://www.biomol.com/cavidi/)
- [Cayman Chemical](https://www.biomol.com/cayman/)
- [Chemodex](https://www.biomol.com/chemodex/)
- [Chimerigen Laboratories](https://www.biomol.com/chimerigen/)
- [Croyez](https://www.biomol.com/croyez/)
- [Cusabio](https://www.biomol.com/cusabio/)
- [Cytion](https://www.biomol.com/cytion/)
- [Diaclone](https://www.biomol.com/diaclone/)
- [DIMA Biotech](https://www.biomol.com/dima/)
- [Elabscience](https://www.biomol.com/elabscience/)
- [ELK Biotechnology](https://www.biomol.com/elk-biotechnology/)
- [Expert Synthesis Solutions](https://www.biomol.com/ess/)
- [ForMedium](https://www.biomol.com/formedium/)
- [GenScript](https://www.biomol.com/genscript/)
- [Hycult Biotech](https://www.biomol.com/hycult-biotech/)
- [ImmunoChemistry](https://www.biomol.com/ict/)
- [Indigo Biosciences](https://www.biomol.com/indigo/)
- [Innaxon](https://www.biomol.com/innaxon/)
- [InVitria](https://www.biomol.com/invitria/)
- [IsoSciences](https://www.biomol.com/isosciences/)
- [JaICA](https://www.biomol.com/jaica/)
- [KACTUS](https://www.biomol.com/kactus/)
- [Kingfisher Biotech](https://www.biomol.com/kingfisher/)
- [LKT Laboratories](https://www.biomol.com/lkt/)
- [LubioScience](https://www.biomol.com/lubioscience/)
- [Micronbrane Medical](https://www.biomol.com/micronbrane/)
- [MONOSAN](https://www.biomol.com/monosan/)
- [nanoComposix](https://www.biomol.com/nanocomposix/)
- [Navinci Diagnostics](https://www.biomol.com/navinci/)
- [NeoBiotechnologies](https://www.biomol.com/neobiotechnologies/)
- [NewEast Biosciences](https://www.biomol.com/neweastbio/)
- [Novoprotein](https://www.biomol.com/novoprotein/)
- [NSJ Bioreagents](https://www.biomol.com/nsjbio/)
- [NuSep](https://www.biomol.com/nusep/)
- [NZYtech](https://www.biomol.com/nzytech/)
- [ORF Genetics](https://www.biomol.com/orf-genetics/)
- [Pacific Coast Bio](https://www.biomol.com/pacific-coast-bio/)
- [Peptides & Elephants](https://www.biomol.com/peptides-and-elephants/)
- [Quantoom Biosciences](https://www.biomol.com/quantoom/)
- [Randox](https://www.biomol.com/randox/)
- [RealTimePrimers](https://www.biomol.com/realtimeprimers/)
- [Research Donors](https://www.biomol.com/research-donors/)
- [RevMAb Biosciences](https://www.biomol.com/revmab/)
- [Rockland Immunochemicals](https://www.biomol.com/rockland/)
- [Slingshot Biosciences](https://www.biomol.com/slingshot/)
- [South Bay Bio](https://www.biomol.com/south-bay-bio/)
- [SYNkinase](https://www.biomol.com/synkinase/)
- [TargetMol](https://www.biomol.com/targetmol/)
- [U-genes](https://www.biomol.com/u-genes/)
- [United States Biological](https://www.biomol.com/usbiological/)
- [Virax Biolabs](https://www.biomol.com/virax-biolabs/)

[** To category Products ](https://www.biomol.com/products/) **

- [Biomol Blog](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog)
- [Applications](https://www.biomol.com/resources/applications/)
- [Webinars](https://www.biomol.com/resources/webinars/bps-bioscience/)
- [Protocols](https://www.biomol.com/resources/protocols/)
- [Buffer Recipes](https://www.biomol.com/resources/buffer-recipes/)
- [Catalogs](https://www.biomol.com/resources/catalogs/)
- [Wall Posters](https://www.biomol.com/resources/wall-posters/)
- [Conference Calendar](https://www.biomol.com/resources/conference-calendar/)
- [Newsletter](https://www.biomol.com/newsletter)
- [Tools](https://www.biomol.com/resources/tools/molarity-calculator/) 
    - [Molarity Calculator](https://www.biomol.com/resources/tools/molarity-calculator/)
    - [Cytokine Activity Conversion](https://www.biomol.com/resources/tools/cytokine-activity-conversion/)
    - [ELISA Analysis](https://www.biomol.com/resources/tools/elisa-analysis/)
    - [Fluorescence Spectrum Viewer](https://www.biomol.com/resources/tools/fluorescence-spectrum-viewer/)

Resources

 Download detailed protocols and guides for different applications. Get the latest catalogs and brochures from our partners and learn where you can meet us in person at conferences. Learn more about our products in our blog and use online tools to... [ learn more ](https://www.biomol.com/resources/)

[** To category Products ](https://www.biomol.com/products/) **

- [Company History](https://www.biomol.com/company-history)
- [Awards](https://www.biomol.com/awards)
- [Contact](https://www.biomol.com/contact-form)
- [Technical Support](https://www.biomol.com/technical-service)
- [Career](https://www.biomol.com/job-offers)
- [FAQ](https://support.biomol.com/?hsLang=en)





- [ Close menu ** ](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tracking-cell-death-with-apoptosis-assays-from-elabscience#close-categories-menu)

en

 DE

 Categories

- [Products](https://www.biomol.com/products/)
- [Suppliers](https://www.biomol.com/suppliers/)
- [Resources](https://www.biomol.com/resources/)
- [Promotions](https://www.biomol.com/promotions/)
- [About Biomol](https://www.biomol.com/about-biomol/)

 Information

- [Contact](https://www.biomol.com/contact)
- [Technical Service](https://www.biomol.com/technical-service)
- [FAQ](https://www.biomol.com/faq)
- [Shipping Costs](https://www.biomol.com/shipping-costs)
- [Product Search Tips](https://www.biomol.com/product-search-tips)
- [Distributors](https://www.biomol.com/distributors)
- [Company History](https://www.biomol.com/company-history)
- Cookie Settings

- [Home](https://www.biomol.com/)
- [Blog](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog)
- Tracking Cell Death with Apoptosis Assays from Elabscience®

- [Flow Cytometry](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/flow-cytometry)
- [Assay Kits](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/assay-kits)
- [DNA](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/dna)
- [Fluorescence](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/fluorescence)
- [Proteins](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/proteins)
- [Elabscience](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/elabscience)
- [Apoptosis](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/apoptosis)

# Tracking Cell Death with Apoptosis Assays from Elabscience®

Written by: Emily Locke  02-27-2026

Share post on social media:

[Share on Whatsapp ](whatsapp://send?text=https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tracking-cell-death-with-apoptosis-assays-from-elabscience) [Share on X ](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?source=https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tracking-cell-death-with-apoptosis-assays-from-elabscience&text=Tracking%20Cell%20Death%20with%20Apoptosis%20Assays%20from%20Elabscience®%20-%20https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tracking-cell-death-with-apoptosis-assays-from-elabscience) [Share on LinkedIn ](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tracking-cell-death-with-apoptosis-assays-from-elabscience) [Share on Facebook ](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tracking-cell-death-with-apoptosis-assays-from-elabscience)

![Tracking Cell Death with Apoptosis Assays from Elabscience®](https://resources.biomol.com/hubfs/Biomol/Blog%20Images/2026/202602%20-%20Apoptose%20Assays%20(Elabscience)/Elabscience_Apoptosis_Preview.jpg)

An average adult loses approximately 50 to 70 billion cells per day through programmed cell death [1]. At first glance, this may seem like an enormous number. However, considering that the human body contains on average more than 13 trillion cells (1.3 x 1013), this accounts for only about 0.5% of all body cells [2]. Nevertheless, cell death in self-renewing tissues such as the skin, gut, and bone marrow is essential to make room for the billions of new cells produced each day. The morphological “ritual” that cells undergo during this process is known as apoptosis and is controlled by a family of intracellular proteases called caspases. In contrast to necrosis – the accidental and often “chaotic” form of cell death caused by trauma – apoptosis is tightly regulated. During this process, the cell breaks down into small, membrane-bound fragments (apoptotic bodies) that are rapidly engulfed and cleared by phagocytes. As a result, no inflammatory reactions or tissue scarring occur – essentially a “clean” cellular cleanup process [1]. 

If apoptosis fails, cancer cells can survive and proliferate uncontrollably. Conversely, excessive apoptosis can contribute to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease [3]. It is therefore hardly surprising that this central biological process receives significant attention in research. Our partner [Elabscience®](https://www.biomol.com/elabscience/) supports scientists in apoptosis research with a broad range of products for investigating and detecting apoptotic processes [4]. The portfolio spans from Annexin V and caspase assays to TUNEL assays and JC-1 assays – ensuring that you can find the right kit for every question in your apoptosis research. 

[1) Annexin V – A Sensitive Marker for Early Apoptosis](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tracking-cell-death-with-apoptosis-assays-from-elabscience#1)

[2) Caspases – The Molecular Scissors of Apoptosis](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tracking-cell-death-with-apoptosis-assays-from-elabscience#2)

[3) TUNEL Assays – Established in situ Method for Apoptosis Detection](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tracking-cell-death-with-apoptosis-assays-from-elabscience#3)

[4) JC-1 – The Color Indicator for Mitochondrial Health](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tracking-cell-death-with-apoptosis-assays-from-elabscience#4)

[![Subscribe to the free Biomol newsletter and never miss a blog article again!](https://hubspot-no-cache-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/144662462/80065e88-f5aa-4618-9cde-43189a3045f3.png)](https://hubspot-cta-redirect-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/redirect/144662462/80065e88-f5aa-4618-9cde-43189a3045f3)

 

## **Annexin V – A Sensitive Marker for Early Apoptosis**

In the early phase of apoptosis, the essential phospholipid phosphatidylserine (PS) translocates from the cytoplasmic inner leaflet of the plasma membrane to the outer membrane surface of the dying cell (Fig. 1). Annexin V is a calcium-dependent protein with a molecular weight of approximately 35-36 kDa that binds PS with high affinity and can therefore be used to detect early apoptotic cells [5]. Elabscience® has developed Annexin V apoptosis kits that combine 15 fluorochromes and three nucleic acid dyes to meet diverse research requirements. The assays employ a conjugate of Annexin V and a fluorescent marker, combined with nuclear DNA staining, for example using propidium iodide (PI), 7-aminoactinomycin D (7-AAD), or 4’,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI). This approach enables reliable discrimination between viable, apoptotic, and necrotic cells. Detection is typically performed by flow cytometry.

![Elabscience_Apoptosis_Fig1](https://resources.biomol.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Biomol/Blog%20Images/2026/202602%20-%20Apoptose%20Assays%20(Elabscience)/Elabscience_Apoptosis_Fig1.jpg?width=700&height=234&name=Elabscience_Apoptosis_Fig1.jpg)***Figure1:  Principle of Annexin V apoptosis kits. ****During apoptosis, phosphatidylserine (PS) translocates from the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane to the outer surface. Ca**2+-dependent Annexin V conjugated to a fluorescent marker (here APC) can then bind PS, enabling detection of apoptotic cells by flow cytometry [5]. * 

## **Key Advantages of Annexin V Apoptosis Kits at a Glance:** 

- **Multiple options:** 15 fluorochromes combined with 3 nucleic acid dyes
- **High accuracy:** Ideal for detecting early apoptosis without fixation-related false positives
- **Fast and simple workflow:** Only 15-20 minutes of hands-on time
- **Strict quality control:** Developed in-house with traceable and reliable quality 

| **Annexin V Apoptosis Assay Kit** | **Product Number** | **Fluorochrome** | **Price** |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Annexin V-FITC/PI Apoptosis Kit  | [E-CK-A211](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/cell-based-assays/apoptosis-and-cell-cycle-assays/annexin-v-fitc/pi-apoptosis-kit-e-ck-a211.20) | FITC | from 66,00 € |
| Annexin V-APC/PI Apoptosis Kit | [E-CK-A217](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/cell-based-assays/apoptosis-and-cell-cycle-assays/annexin-v-apc/pi-apoptosis-kit-e-ck-a217.20) | APC | from 66,00 € |
| Annexin V-APC/7-AAD Apoptosis Kit | [E-CK-A218](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/cell-based-assays/apoptosis-and-cell-cycle-assays/annexin-v-apc/7-aad-apoptosis-kit-e-ck-a218.20) | APC | from 66,00 € |
| Annexin V-EGFP/7-AAD Apoptosis Kit | [E-CK-A220](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/cell-based-assays/apoptosis-and-cell-cycle-assays/annexin-v-egfp/7-aad-apoptosis-kit-e-ck-a220.20) | EGFP | from 76,00 € |
| Annexin V-AF647/DAPI Apoptosis Detection Kit | [E-CK-A254](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/cell-based-assays/apoptosis-and-cell-cycle-assays/annexin-v-af647/dapi-apoptosis-detection-kit-e-ck-a254.20) | Elab Fluor® 647 | from 76,00 € |
| Annexin V-Cyanine5/DAPI Apoptosis Detection Kit | [E-CK-A262](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/cell-based-assays/apoptosis-and-cell-cycle-assays/annexin-v-cyanine5/dapi-apoptosis-detection-kit-e-ck-a262.20) | Cyanine5 | from 76,00 € |

## **Caspases – The Molecular Scissors of Apoptosis**

Caspases are a family of cysteine proteases that act as central regulators of programmed cell death as well as certain inflammatory processes. They cleave target proteins specifically after aspartate residues, leading either to the orderly dismantling of the cell or to the maturation of inflammatory cytokines [6]. With the caspase assays from Elabscience®, the activity of different caspases can be measured with high specificity using either colorimetric or fluorescence-based methods. 

The colorimetric method employs caspase-specific peptide substrates conjugated to the yellow chromophore *p*-nitroanilide (pNA) (Fig. 2). Upon caspase activation, the enzyme cleaves the substrate, thereby releasing the yellow chromophore. The absorbance of the liberated pNA can subsequently be measured using a spectrophotometer or a microplate reader at wavelengths of approximately 400-405 nm [6]. 

![Elabscience_Apoptosis_Fig2](https://resources.biomol.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Biomol/Blog%20Images/2026/202602%20-%20Apoptose%20Assays%20(Elabscience)/Elabscience_Apoptosis_Fig2.jpg?width=500&height=238&name=Elabscience_Apoptosis_Fig2.jpg)***Figure 2:  Principle of the colorimetric caspase assay method. ****The activated caspase cleaves the acetylated (Ac) peptide substrate, thereby releasing the yellow chromophore *p*-nitroanilide (pNA). Its absorbance can then be measured using a spectrophotometer or a microplate reader [6].**** ****** *** 

In contrast, the fluorescence-based method uses caspase-specific peptide substrates conjugated to a high-affinity DNA fluorochrome (Fig. 3). These substrates are capable of penetrating the cell membrane and entering the cytoplasm. In their intact form, they are non-fluorescent and, due to electrostatic repulsion, do not bind to DNA. Following caspase activation, the substrate is cleaved and the high-affinity DNA fluorochrome is released. This fluorochrome can then bind to DNA and generate a strong fluorescent signal. Consequently, this method enables both the detection of caspase activity and the visualization of morphological changes in the nucleus during apoptosis [6]. 

![Elabscience_Apoptosis_Fig3](https://resources.biomol.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Biomol/Blog%20Images/2026/202602%20-%20Apoptose%20Assays%20(Elabscience)/Elabscience_Apoptosis_Fig3.jpg?width=605&height=181&name=Elabscience_Apoptosis_Fig3.jpg)

***Figure 3:  Principle of the fluorescence-based caspase assay method. **The peptide substrates, conjugated to a DNA fluorochrome, enter the cytoplasm, where they are cleaved by activated caspases. The released DNA fluorochrome can then enter the nucleus, bind to DNA, and generate a strong fluorescent signal [6]. * 

## **Key Advantages of Caspase Apoptosis Kits at a Glance:** 

- **Easy to use:** One-step staining saves time and effort
- **Safe and non-toxic:** Low cytotoxicity and does not interfere with the apoptosis process
- **Cost-effective:** Key components are developed in-house, ensuring stable quality at a more affordable price
- **Wide applicability:** Suitable for various cell types and compatible with other assay kits  

| **Caspase Apoptosis Kit** | **Product Number** | **Price** |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Caspase 1 Activity Assay Kit (Colorimetric Method) | [E-CK-A381](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/biochemical-assays/caspase-1-activity-assay-kit-colorimetric-method-e-ck-a381.20) | from 69,00 € |
| Caspase 2 Activity Assay Kit (Colorimetric Method) | [E-CK-A382](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/biochemical-assays/caspase-2-activity-assay-kit-colorimetric-method-e-ck-a382.20) | from 69,00 € |
| Caspase 3/7 Activity Assay Kit (Colorimetric Method) | [E-CK-A383](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/biochemical-assays/caspase-3/7-activity-assay-kit-colorimetric-method-e-ck-a383.20) | from 69,00 € |
| Caspase 3/7 and PI Double Staining Kit | [E-CK-A832](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/cell-based-assays/apoptosis-and-cell-cycle-assays/caspase-3/7-and-pi-double-staining-kit-e-ck-a832.20) | from 115,00 € |
| Caspase 3/7 and Annexin V Double Staining Apoptosis Kit | [E-CK-A831](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/cell-based-assays/apoptosis-and-cell-cycle-assays/caspase-3/7-and-annexin-v-double-staining-apoptosis-kit-e-ck-a831.20) | from 130,00 € |

[![Came to stay? Follow us on LinkedIn!](https://hubspot-no-cache-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/144662462/efba0793-3cce-47e7-bc4a-e5b491931931.png)](https://hubspot-cta-redirect-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/redirect/144662462/efba0793-3cce-47e7-bc4a-e5b491931931)

********

## **TUNEL Assays – Established *in situ* Method for Apoptosis Detection**

A key feature of late-stage apoptosis is DNA fragmentation. In the TUNEL assay, the exposed 3’-OH ends of fragmented DNA can be enzymatically labeled with fluorochrome-conjugated deoxyuridine triphosphate (dUTP) by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT). This labeling can then be detected using fluorescence microscopy or flow cytometry. If the 3’-OH groups are labeled with biotin-conjugated dUTP under TdT catalysis and subsequently coupled with HRP-conjugated streptavidin, the signal can be visualized via DAB color development catalyzed by HRP. In this case, apoptotic cells can be detected using a conventional light microscope [7].   

Elabscience® has developed a series of TUNEL apoptosis kits, including the One-step TUNEL *In Situ* Apoptosis Kit, the One-step TUNEL Flow Cytometry Apoptosis Kit, and the TUNEL *In Situ* Apoptosis Kit (HRP-DAB method). These kits can be used to detect apoptosis in both tissue samples (paraffin-embedded and frozen sections) and cell samples (cell smears, culture preparations, as well as suspension and adherent cells) [7]. 

## **Key Advantages of TUNEL Apoptosis Kits at a Glance:** 

- **Multiple options:** Kits available with a variety of fluorescent dyes (FITC / Elab Fluor® 488 / Elab Fluor® 594 / Elab Fluor® Violet 450 / Elab Fluor® 647 / Elab Fluor® 555)
- **Easy to use:** One-step staining saves time and effort
- **Broad applicability:** Suitable for a variety of cell and tissue samples
- **High sensitivity:** Apoptosis can be detected at the single-cell level
- **Methodological flexibility:** Compatible with both flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy   

| **TUNEL Apoptosis Kit** | **Product Number** | **Price** |
| --- | --- | --- |
| One-step TUNEL in situ Apoptosis Kit (Green, FITC) | [E-CK-A320](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/cell-based-assays/apoptosis-and-cell-cycle-assays/one-step-tunel-in-situ-apoptosis-kit-green-fitc-e-ck-a320.20) | from 201,00 € |
| One-step TUNEL in situ Apoptosis Kit (Red, AF594) | [E-CK-A322](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/cell-based-assays/apoptosis-and-cell-cycle-assays/one-step-tunel-in-situ-apoptosis-kit-red-af594-e-ck-a322.20) | from 201,00 €  |
| One-step TUNEL Flow Cytometry Apoptosis Kit (Green, AF488) | [E-CK-A421](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/cell-based-assays/apoptosis-and-cell-cycle-assays/one-step-tunel-flow-cytometry-apoptosis-kit-green-af488-e-ck-a421.20) | from 201,00 €  |
| One-step TUNEL Flow Cytometry Apoptosis Kit (Red, AF647) | [E-CK-A424](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/cell-based-assays/apoptosis-and-cell-cycle-assays/one-step-tunel-flow-cytometry-apoptosis-kit-red-af647-e-ck-a424.20) | from 201,00 €  |
| TUNEL in situ Apoptosis Kit (HRP-DAB method) | [E-CK-A331](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/cell-based-assays/apoptosis-and-cell-cycle-assays/tunel-in-situ-apoptosis-kit-hrp-dab-method-e-ck-a331.20) | from 284,00 € |

********

## **JC-1 – The Color Indicator for Mitochondrial Health**

A decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) is a marker event in the early stages of apoptosis and occurs before nuclear apoptotic features such as chromatin condensation and DNA fragmentation appear. Once the mitochondrial membrane potential collapses, apoptosis becomes irreversible. JC-1 is a fluorescent probe commonly used to measure mitochondrial membrane potential. In healthy cells, the mitochondrial membrane potential is high; JC-1 accumulates in the mitochondrial matrix and forms aggregates (polymers) that emit red fluorescence. In the early stages of apoptosis, the mitochondrial membrane potential decreases, preventing JC-1 from accumulating in the mitochondrial matrix. In its monomeric form, JC-1 emits green fluorescence. 

The decrease in membrane potential can therefore be detected by the shift of JC-1 fluorescence from red to green; this color change serves as an early indicator of apoptosis [8]. The [Elabscience® Mitochondrial Membrane Potential Assay Kit (with JC-1)](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/cell-based-assays/apoptosis-and-cell-cycle-assays/mitochondrial-membrane-potential-assay-kit-with-jc-1-e-ck-a301.20) is easy to use, and the results are straightforward to interpret, making it an effective tool for assessing apoptotic status [9].

| **Mitochondrial Assay Kit** | **Product Number** | **Price** |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Mitochondrial Membrane Potential Assay Kit (with JC-1) | [E-CK-A301](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/cell-based-assays/apoptosis-and-cell-cycle-assays/mitochondrial-membrane-potential-assay-kit-with-jc-1-e-ck-a301.20) | from 109,00 € |
| MitoBright Green Probe Assay Kit | [E-CK-A401](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/biochemical-assays/mitobright-green-probe-assay-kit-e-ck-a401.20) | from 28,00 €  |
| MitoBright Red Probe Assay Kit | [E-CK-A402](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/biochemical-assays/mitobright-red-probe-assay-kit-e-ck-a402.20) | from 28,00 €  |
| MitoBright Deep Red Probe Assay Kit | [E-CK-A403](https://www.biomol.com/products/assay-kits/biochemical-assays/mitobright-deep-red-probe-assay-kit-e-ck-a403.20) | from 28,00 €  |

 

### **With Elabscience® apoptosis kits, you are perfectly equipped for your research. E****xpand your toolkit for precise apoptosis analyses today!** 

### Curious to learn more? Explore the full range of apoptosis assays and other products from Elabscience® [here](https://www.biomol.com/elabscience/).  

[**All Products from Elabscience**](https://www.biomol.com/elabscience/)

 

## Sources

[1] Reed JC. Dysregulation of apoptosis in cancer. J Clin Oncol. 1999 Sep;17(9):2941-53. doi: 10.1200/JCO.1999.17.9.2941. PMID: 10561374.

[2] Alberts B, Johnson A, Lewis J, Raff M, Roberts K, Walter P (2015). Molecular Biology of the Cell (6th ed.). Garland Science. p. 2. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-8153-4432-2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-8153-4432-2).

[3] Hug, H. (2000), Apoptose: die Selbstvernichtung der Zelle als Überlebensschutz. Biologie in unserer Zeit, 30: 128-135.

[4] [https://www.elabscience.com/products/cell-function-assays?srsltid=AfmBOoq-4JeaxxFRo6azA0AxpQIWezlviWVqnP6DsbX0IeP6EkTdZK7A](https://www.elabscience.com/products/cell-function-assays?srsltid=AfmBOoq-4JeaxxFRo6azA0AxpQIWezlviWVqnP6DsbX0IeP6EkTdZK7A), 08.02.2026

[5] [https://www.elabscience.com/products/annexin-assay-kits](https://www.elabscience.com/products/annexin-assay-kits), 08.02.2026

[6] [https://www.elabscience.com/products/caspase-assay-kits](https://www.elabscience.com/products/caspase-assay-kits), 09.02.2026

[7] [https://www.elabscience.com/products/tunel-assay-kits](https://www.elabscience.com/products/tunel-assay-kits), 09.02.2026

[8] [https://www.elabscience.com/p/mitochondrial-membrane-potential-assay-kit-with-jc-1--e-ck-a301](https://www.elabscience.com/p/mitochondrial-membrane-potential-assay-kit-with-jc-1--e-ck-a301), 09.02.2026

[9] [https://www.elabscience.com/search?category=mitochondrial-assay-kits](https://www.elabscience.com/search?category=mitochondrial-assay-kits), 09.02.2026

Preview Image: [https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:HeLa-IV.jpg](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:HeLa-IV.jpg), [PDM 1.0](https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/), 08.02.2026

---

 

## You might also like...

 SEE MORE BLOGPOST

<https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/cellular-self-destruction-visualizing-apoptosis-with-aat-bioquests-tunel-assays?hsLang=en>

![Cellular Self-Destruction – Visualizing Apoptosis with AAT Bioquest’s TUNEL Assays](https://resources.biomol.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Biomol/Blog%20Images/202508%20-%20TUNEL%20Assays%20(AAT)/AAT_TUNEL_Preview_v2.png?width=600&name=AAT_TUNEL_Preview_v2.png)

##### Cellular Self-Destruction – Visualizing Apoptosis with AAT Bioquest’s TUNEL Assays

 Programmed cell death, the cell’s suicide program, planned cell demise – all these terms describe apoptosis. It is a tightly regulated...

- [Flow Cytometry](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/flow-cytometry)
- [Assay Kits](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/assay-kits)
- [DNA](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/dna)
- [Fluorescence](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/fluorescence)
- [AAT Bioquest](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/aat-bioquest)
- [Apoptosis](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/apoptosis)

<https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/keep-cool-safely-preserving-cells-with-cellbanker-from-amsbio?hsLang=en>

![Keep Cool: Safely Preserving Cells with CELLBANKER® from Amsbio](https://resources.biomol.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Biomol/Blog%20Images/202509%20-%20CELLBANKER%20(Amsbio)/CELLBANKER_Preview.png?width=600&name=CELLBANKER_Preview.png)

##### Keep Cool: Safely Preserving Cells with CELLBANKER® from Amsbio

 We all remember the lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic: schools were closed, many workplaces shifted to home offices, contact...

- [Amsbio](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/amsbio)
- [Cell Culture](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/cell-culture)

<https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/greater-reproducibility-with-cell-mimics-from-slingshot-biosciences?hsLang=en>

![Greater Reproducibility with Cell Mimics from Slingshot Biosciences](https://resources.biomol.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Biomol/Blog%20Images/2026/202604%20-%20Slingshot/Slingshot_Preview.jpg?width=600&name=Slingshot_Preview.jpg)

##### Greater Reproducibility with Cell Mimics from Slingshot Biosciences

 Reproducibility is a fundamental pillar of the scientific method, enabling researchers to independently verify and validate the results of...

- [Flow Cytometry](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/flow-cytometry)
- [Fluorescence](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/fluorescence)
- [FACS](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/facs)
- [Markers](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/markers)
- [Standards](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/standards)
- [Slingshot Biosciences](https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tag/slingshot-biosciences)

Biomol Newsletter

 Subscribe to the free Biomol newsletter and receive updates on research tools from Biomol. You will also receive a **10€ Voucher** for your next order.

Click here to subscribe to our newsletter! **

Important Notice

 Please note that our products are for **research use only** and **cannot be delivered to private individuals** and addresses, but only to authorized institutions and businesses.

You can find us on

[** ](https://www.facebook.com/biomol) [** ](https://www.linkedin.com/company/biomol-gmbh/) [** ](https://www.xing.com/companies/biomolgmbh) [** ](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRD-h8vgRJc2p83-y_ITJDA) [![Mastodon](https://resources.biomol.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/biomol-theme/images/icon_mastodon.png) ](https://mastodon.social/@biomol)

Legal

- [ Privacy Policy ](https://www.biomol.com/privacy-policy)
- Cookie Settings
- [ Trademarks ](https://www.biomol.com/trademarks)
- [ Terms and Conditions ](https://www.biomol.com/terms-and-conditions)
- [ Imprint ](https://www.biomol.com/imprint)

About Biomol

- [ Contact ](https://www.biomol.com/contact)
- [ Technical Service ](https://www.biomol.com/technical-service)
- [ FAQ ](https://www.biomol.com/faq)
- [ Shipping Costs ](https://www.biomol.com/shipping-costs)
- [ Product Search Tips ](https://www.biomol.com/product-search-tips)
- [ Distributors ](https://www.biomol.com/distributors)
- [ Company History ](https://www.biomol.com/company-history)
- [ Memberships ](https://www.biomol.com/memberships)
- [ Job Offers ](https://www.biomol.com/job-offers)
- [ Sitemap ](https://www.biomol.com/sitemap)

Customer Service

 Mon - Thu, 9 am - 5 pm CET  
Fri, 9 am - 4 pm CET  
Tel: [+49-40-8532600](tel:+49-40-8532600)  
Email: [info@biomol.com](mailto:info@biomol.com)

Awards

[![Auszeichnung](https://resources.biomol.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/biomol-theme/images/Auszeichnung.jpg) ](https://www.biomol.com/awards)

Payment Methods

![icon_payment_invoice--en](https://resources.biomol.com/hubfs/Biomol/icon_payment_invoice--en.svg)

Shipping

![UPS](https://resources.biomol.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/biomol-theme/images/UPS-logo.png?noresize&width=22&height=26&name=UPS-logo.png) We ship with UPS Express Saver.

**Free** [shipping and coolant](https://www.biomol.com/shipping-costs) for online orders over 1,000 € within Germany *(does not apply when shipping fresh blood products from [Research Donors](https://www.biomol.com/research-donors/))*.

[** ](https://www.facebook.com/biomol) [** ](https://www.linkedin.com/company/biomol-gmbh/) [** ](https://www.xing.com/companies/biomolgmbh) [** ](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRD-h8vgRJc2p83-y_ITJDA) [![Mastodon](https://resources.biomol.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/biomol-theme/images/icon_mastodon.png) ](https://mastodon.social/@biomol)

 © 2025 Biomol GmbH - Life Science Shop | Kieler Straße 303a | 22525 Hamburg | Germany

```json
{
  "@context" : "https://schema.org",
  "@type" : "BlogPosting",
  "author" : {
    "@type" : "Person",
    "name" : "Emily Locke",
    "url" : "https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/author/emily-locke"
  },
  "dateModified" : "2026-06-01T12:13:19.922Z",
  "datePublished" : "2026-02-27T09:00:00.000Z",
  "headline" : "Tracking Cell Death with Apoptosis Assays from Elabscience®",
  "image" : [ "https://resources.biomol.com/hubfs/Biomol/Blog%20Images/2026/202602%20-%20Apoptose%20Assays%20(Elabscience)/Elabscience_Apoptosis_Preview.jpg" ],
  "mainEntityOfPage" : {
    "@id" : "https://resources.biomol.com/biomol-blog/tracking-cell-death-with-apoptosis-assays-from-elabscience",
    "@type" : "WebPage"
  },
  "publisher" : {
    "@type" : "Organization",
    "logo" : {
      "@type" : "ImageObject",
      "url" : "https://resources.biomol.com/hubfs/Biomol/biomol-logo.png"
    }
  }
}
```