Description
Phagocytosis in mammals serves as an important first line defense mechanism against invading pathogens. It is also essential for continuous clearance of dying cells, tissue remodeling, and acquisition of nutrients for some cells. Phagocytosis is a specific form of endocytosis initiated by recognition and binding of foreign particles by cell surface receptors, followed by their engulfment, and formation of phagosomes. Maturing phagosomes transform to phagolysosomes which destroy the pathogen through enzymes and toxic peroxides. E. coli and other bacterial strains are often used as a pathogen in phagocytosis assays. Phagocytosis Assay Kit (Red E. coli) utilizes heat-killed, fluorescently pre-labeled E. coli particles as a tool for rapid and accurate detection and quantification of in vitro phagocytosis by fluorescent microscope, spectrophotometer or flow cytometry. The kit provides a robust screening system for activators and/or inhibitors of phagocytosis and Toll-like receptors (TLR) ligands