


An Insight from the Tebubio Team
Discover how Dojindo’s Apoptosis (Annexin V) Plate Assay Kit simplifies early apoptosis detection—without the need for flow cytometry.
This user-friendly, plate-based assay enables high-throughput detection of phosphatidylserine exposure—an early apoptosis marker—using a standard fluorescence reader. It's a smarter, faster way to monitor cell death right from your benchtop.
Cell death has long been a central focus in biomedical research due to its critical involvement in the development and progression of numerous diseases. Traditionally, it has been classified into two main forms—apoptosis and necrosis—depending on the nature of the trigger and cellular context. However, recent advances have revealed alternative forms of regulated cell death, such as ferroptosis and autophagic cell death, which follow distinct molecular pathways.
As a result, detailed characterisation of cell death mechanisms is now considered a key strategy in the search for novel therapeutic approaches.
Figure 1: Cell death.
The Challenge: Early Apoptosis Detection Without Flow Cytometry
In modern cell biology and drug development, accurately detecting apoptosis is a cornerstone of experimental success. From cancer research to toxicity screening, researchers need a method that reveals early-stage apoptosis clearly, efficiently, and reproducibly.
Yet the standard approach—Annexin V/PI staining via flow cytometry—presents logistical and technical barriers. It’s time-consuming, equipment-dependent, and unsuitable for high-throughput workflows. Scientists often ask:
“How can I detect apoptosis early without a cytometer?”
Our partner Dojindo provides the answer with a plate-based, fluorescence Annexin V assay designed for simplicity and throughput—without compromising scientific integrity.
Dojindo’s Annexin V Plate Assay Kit: A Smarter Approach to Apoptosis Research
The Annexin V Plate Assay Kit (AD12) enables quantitative detection of early apoptosis by measuring phosphatidylserine (PS) externalisation using a fluorescence microplate format. This signal is captured using a standard fluorescence plate reader, bypassing the need for flow cytometry entirely.
This innovative format allows you to conduct apoptosis assays with less variability, greater scalability, and minimal technical barriers—ideal for routine use or screening applications.
HeLa cells were treated with Staurosporine to induce apoptosis. One sample was stained with commercially available FITC-labeled Annexin V and then detected by a flow cytometer, while the other sample was detected by a plate reader using the Annexin V Apoptosis Plate Assay Kit. As a result, an increase in fluorescence intensity was confirmed with the progression of apoptosis in both the flow cytometer and the plate reader. [Experimental conditions] [Detection conditions] |
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Figure 2: Comparison with flow cytometry.
Why Phosphatidylserine and Annexin V?
Phosphatidylserine, normally located on the cytoplasmic side of the plasma membrane, is rapidly translocated to the extracellular side during early apoptosis. Annexin V binds selectively to this externalised PS in a Ca²⁺-dependent manner, making it a highly sensitive and specific marker for early apoptotic cells.
The Annexin V Plate Assay Kit uses Annexin V conjugated with a red fluorescent dye (λex/em = 545/595 nm), allowing precise quantification of apoptotic cells by measuring fluorescence intensity in each well.
Figure 3: Late stages of apoptosis.
What Makes This Kit Stand Out?
- Flow-Free Detection
No flow cytometer? No problem. Use a standard fluorescence plate reader, making the assay accessible to any lab. - High Throughput-Ready
Compatible with 96-well plate formats, the assay is ideal for parallel processing and automation, supporting drug screening and toxicological profiling. - Quantitative & Reproducible
The signal is linear across cell numbers and treatment doses, enabling accurate quantification of apoptosis under various experimental conditions. - Red Fluorescent Signal
With excitation/emission at 545/595 nm, the red fluorescence minimises spectral overlap with common green dyes (e.g., GFP), allowing easy multiplexing. - Simplified Workflow
Minimal handling steps, fewer wash steps, and no need for cell fixation.
Figure 4: Apoptosis (Annexin V) Plate Assay Kit protocol steps.
Customer-Focused Innovation: Designed for Scientists Who Need Results
Designed with the bench scientist in mind, Dojindo’s kit simplifies complex workflows, supports high-throughput demands, and delivers clear, reproducible results. Whether you're screening large compound libraries, comparing apoptosis across conditions, or streamlining routine assays, this kit offers a reliable, user-friendly solution.
Its versatility makes it an essential tool for:
- Anti-cancer drug screening
- Cell stress and death pathway analysis
- Toxicology and compound profiling
- Immunology and inflammation research
- Apoptosis time-course studies
Moreover, its compatibility with both adherent and suspension cells ensures seamless integration into a wide range of experimental models.
Conclusion: Early Apoptosis, Clearly Detected—No Flow Cytometer Needed
The Annexin V Plate Assay Kit (AD12) from Dojindo brings high-performance apoptosis detection into an easy-to-use, scalable format—no specialised equipment required.
Whether you're accelerating oncology research or assessing drug safety, this kit offers a precise, accessible, and efficient solution for early apoptosis detection.

"At Tebubio, our mission is to connect researchers with solutions that simplify their workflows without compromising on quality. This Annexin V Plate Assay Kit from Dojindo is a perfect example—efficient, reliable, and ready to fit into your daily research routine."
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References
Figures 1 to 4: Courtesy of Dojindo, your trusted supplier for cell-based assays.
Ready to take your cell studies to the next level?
Contact us today to learn more about Dojindo Apoptosis Plate Assay Kit or to request a quote.