BrdU assay kits are tools used to study proliferating cells in living tissues through detection of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU), a thymidine analog. BrdU can replace thymidine during the S phase of the cell cycle and become incorporated into newly replicated cells. Detection of BrdU via specific antibodies thus allows the researcher to observe cell proliferation and viability. BrdU can also act as a marker of cell injury. In environmental microbiology, it can be used to observe the utilization of carbon substrates for microbial growth. Visit the supplier page for more information, including assay kit components.