Annexin V-APC/PI Apoptosis Assay Kit

Annexin V is a calcium-dependent phospholipid-binding protein with high affinity for phosphatidylserine PS, which can bind to the membrane of early apoptotic cells through the exposed PS on the outside of the cell. Annexin V is labeled with fluorescent dyes to detect apoptosis using flow cytometry. The nucleus dye PI binds specifically to double-stranded DNA and produces intense fluorescence, which normally does not pass through the cell membrane. Due to the loss of membrane integrity in late apoptotic or necrotic cells, the nucleus dye PI is able to enter the cell and stain the DNA, and when used in conjunction with Annexin V, it is possible to distinguish between cells at different stages of apoptosis. Ex/Em:640/650