Technically Speaking: Cell-Based Caspase Assays Analyzing the Data

Caspase assays have been dramatically improved over the past few years. Previously, cell-based caspase assays were relatively insensitive and required the preparation of concentrated cell extracts. Today, caspase assays are extremely sensitive; they can be performed directly in multiwell cell culture plates, and there are both luminescent and fluorescent versions of these homogeneous assays. Along with these improvements, new considerations have arisen that require careful attention when analyzing data. There are several features about cell systems that need to be taken into account when designing an apoptosis paradigm and when analyzing results from homogeneous caspase assays. Several common questions regarding the luminescent Caspase-Glo™ Assays highlight these features.

Promega Notes 87, 33–36.