MTS Assay Kits

The MTS assay is designed to evaluate the metabolic activity and viability of cells. The assay involves the conversion of the tetrazolium salt MTS (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium) to a purple formazan in the presence of phenazine methosulfate. The enzymes responsible are NADPH-dependent dehydrogenases, which are active in viable cells. The absorbance of the resulting formazan solution, which is proportional to the number of cells, can be quantified using a spectrophotometer in the 490–500 nm detection range. In contrast to the MTT assay, reagents in the MTS assay can be added directly to cell media, saving additional steps. Browse MTS assay kits below and visit the supplier for more details, including kit components and protocols.