This method assesses the viability of a sample by differentiating between living, dead, and damaged entities. It typically involves staining techniques that selectively penetrate cells based on membrane integrity. For instance, a dye might only enter cells with compromised membranes, indicating cellular damage or death, while another stain identifies metabolically active, living cells.
The value of this assessment lies in its ability to provide crucial information in diverse fields. In cell biology, it is essential for evaluating the effects of various treatments on cell survival. In microbiology, it aids in determining the effectiveness of antimicrobial agents. Historically, this concept has evolved from simple visual observation to sophisticated flow cytometry-based assays, offering increasingly accurate and quantitative results.
