Neuronal Mitochondrial Membrane Potential Assay

Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) is a significant player and indicator of mitochondrial activity. As a reputable senior services supplier, Creative Biolabs is committed to providing accurate neuronal MMP assay services, and we will develop a reasonable detection plan according to your unique needs.

Overview of MMP

Mitochondria are membrane-enclosed organelles that are present in most cells and are described as power plants since they produce most of the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) that cells need. In addition to providing cellular energy, mitochondria also play significant roles in signaling, cell differentiation, cell death, cell cycle as well as cell growth. MMP is a critical indicator of mitochondrial health or injury as it is closely related to electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation, both of which are the driving forces for ATP production. In recent years, an increasing number of assays have been developed to measure MMP, especially fluorescent dye probes, which have emerged as powerful tools for monitoring changes in this pivotal mitochondrial parameter.

Technology of MMP Assay

ATP production is dependent on MMP. On the contrary, MMP reduction leads to ATP depletion and changes in pH in mitochondria. Fluorescent probe dyes are usually cationic compounds, which can be attracted to the negatively charged interior of mitochondria in living cells according to the pH. And the fluorescence intensity represents the condition of the mitochondria. At Creative Biolabs, changes in MMP can be detected by various fluorescent techniques, such as flow cytometry and fluorescence imaging.

Fig.1 JC-1 in neuronal mitochondria. (Perry, et al., 2011)

Services at Creative Biolabs

MMP assays that rely on fluorescent probes are useful for probing mitochondrial health, localization, and abundance, as well as screening and monitoring the effects of some pharmaceutical agents. Creative Biolabs provides diversified MMP testing services, especially JC-1 testing. The principle for this assay is that JC-1 dye exhibits potential-dependent accumulation in mitochondria. In addition, JC-1 produces green or red fluorescence depending on the MMP and allows differentiation of high or low mitochondrial potential.

Why Choose Us

After decades of accumulation, Creative Biolabs has accumulated rich experience in the field of MMP testing, our services have the following advantages:

• Sample diversity

Our assays are suitable for a wide variety of cell types, especially neurons.

• High specificity

The dyes we chose are highly selective for mitochondria.

• Advanced technology platform

We have advanced equipment such as charged-coupled device (CCD) cameras, multiphoton microscopes, and FC for the optical detection of fluorescent dye accumulation in mitochondria.

• Professional experimental skills

Our scientists have specialized experimental skills as all of these dyes require strict attention to technical detail and control for optimal use.

Creative Biolabs has been a world leader in the exploration of the mechanism of neuronal MMP. Our talented scientists will provide advanced technical support and professional solutions to ensure the progress of your project. If you have any difficulty with the MMP project, please contact us in time.

Reference

1. Perry, S.W.; et al. Mitochondrial membrane potential probes and the proton gradient: a practical usage guide. Biotechniques. 2011, 50(2): 98-115.