MTS Assay Kit ab197010 uses a colorimetric method for the sensitive quantification of viable cells. It is based on a single ready-to-use reagent. The MTS assay is used to assess cell proliferation, cell viability and cytotoxicity.

The MTS assay protocol is based on the reduction of the MTS tetrazolium compound by viable mammalian cells (and cells from other species) to generate a colored formazan dye that is soluble in cell culture media. This conversion is thought to be carried out by NAD(P)H-dependent dehydrogenase enzymes in metabolically active cells. The formazan dye is quantified by measuring the absorbance at 490-500 nm. NB: MTS is also available as free molecule as ab223881 (Tetrazolium inner salt cell proliferation reagent).

MTS assay protocol summary:- add MTS reagent to cell culture media- incubate for 0.5 - 4 hours in standard culture conditions- shake plate briefly and measure absorbance at 490 nm.

The MTS assay is suitable for standard cell culture plates or 96-well and other microtitre well plates.

MTS assays are often used for the measurement of cell proliferation in response to growth factors, cytokines, mitogens, and nutrients, etc. They are also used for the analysis of cytotoxic compounds like anticancer drugs and other toxic agents.