Roadmap to Cytotoxicity: Exploring Assays and Mechanisms

Abstract

Cytotoxicity assays are essential in the field of research as they enable the examination of cellular responses to stimuli and shed light on complex mechanisms involved in multiple diseases and drug development. This review covers a range of cytotoxicity assays, including trypan blue and MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)−2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide) assays, to more advanced techniques like caspase activity assays, Lactate dehydrogenase release assays, comet assays, and micronucleus assays for DNA damage assessment. Apart from these, other relevant assays like Alamar Blue, Bromodeoxyuridine incorporation, and clonogenic cell survival are also discussed. In this study, significance of these assays in drug development, toxicology studies, and biomedical research is discussed in detail, highlighting their role in ensuring safety and unraveling disease mechanisms. Furthermore, we explore emerging technologies such as chip-based assays, organ-on-a-chip systems, and high-throughput screening, which enhance precision and efficiency in research. Despite these advancements, challenges remain that necessitate standardization efforts and the development of more refined models. In conclusion, this review reflects on the evolving landscape of cytotoxicity assays, finding a balance between traditional methodologies and cutting-edge technologies.