Diphenyl Blue (Trypan Blue) is a cell active dye commonly used for the identification of dead cells, and to test cell membrane integrity and cell viability. It stains deactivated cells or cells with incomplete cell membranes blue, while normal living cells with intact cell membranes reject it and do not stain blue. Macrophages, however, can phagocytose Diphenyl Blue, allowing its use as a living stain for them.
- Cell active dye.
- Used for identifying dead cells.
- Tests cell membrane integrity and cell viability.
- Stains deactivated cells or cells with incomplete cell membranes blue.
- Normal living cells with intact cell membranes are not stained.
- Can be used as a living stain for macrophages.