BrdU Staining and Labeling Protocols

Overview

BrdU (5′-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine) is a thymidine analog that has been established as a popular tool in cancer and neuroscience research for determining cell proliferation rates. 

Once added to samples, BrdU is incorporated into newly synthesized DNA during replication. BrdU can consequently be detected with anti-BrdU antibodies, such as Rat Anti-BrdU Antibody (clone RF04-2, MCA6143), Human Anti-BrdU Antibody (clone AbD33758kg, HCA320), Mouse Anti-BrdU Antibody (clone Bu20a, MCA2483), and Rabbit Anti-BrdU Antibody (AHP2405) thereby allowing the visualization of proliferating cells.

BrdU detection protocols: