MTT Assay Kits

The MTT assay is a widely used colorimetric method for assessing cell viability, proliferation, and cytotoxicity. MTT assay kits are designed to measure the metabolic activity of cells, providing insights into cell health and function. Here’s a detailed technical overview of MTT assay kits:

Key Components and Reagents

• MTT Solution:
  • Composition: MTT is a yellow tetrazolium salt.
  • Preparation: Typically provided as a sterile, ready-to-use solution or as a powder to be reconstituted in a suitable solvent (e.g., PBS or culture medium).
• Solvent for Formazan Dissolution:
  • Common Solvents: Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), isopropanol, or a mixture of acidic solutions.
  • Purpose: Dissolve the formazan crystals formed in the cells for quantification.
• Cell Culture Medium:
  • Medium: Used to culture cells and maintain their viability during the assay.
• Assay Controls:
  • Positive Control: Cells treated with a known stimulant or growth factor.
  • Negative Control: Cells treated with a known toxic agent or medium alone.

Data Analysis

• Calculate Viability:
  • Absorbance Values: Subtract the background absorbance (if any) from the absorbance values of treated samples.
  • Relative Viability: Compare the absorbance values of treated samples to control samples to determine the percentage of cell viability or proliferation.
• Statistical Analysis:
  • Data Interpretation: Perform statistical analysis to determine the significance of the results. Use appropriate statistical tests to compare treated groups with controls.

Applications

• Cytotoxicity Testing: Assess the effect of drugs, chemicals, or other agents on cell viability and proliferation.
• Cell Proliferation Studies: Measure the impact of growth factors, nutrients, or other conditions on cell growth.
• Pharmacological Research: Evaluate the efficacy of new pharmaceutical compounds or treatments.
• Cancer Research: Study the effects of potential anti-cancer agents on tumor cells.