Methods for detecting apoptotic cells in tissues

Abstract

In this review, methods currently available for the detection of cell death in tissues are surveyed, with special reference to techniques that allow the recognition of apoptotic cells in situ, either in whole mount specimens or in tissue sections. The techniques considered include: severa1 variations on in situ DNA nick-end labelling methods, vital dyes, lysosomal enzyme histochemistry, transglutaminase expression, and immunocytochemical detection of severa1 deathassociated antigens. These methods are discussed in relation to their utility in detecting different stages of cell death, and also to their ability to distinguish between apoptotic and necrotic cell death.