0.4% trypan blue recipe
Stains only dead cells blue so live cells can be counted; mix 1:1 with cell suspension.
🧮 Volume calculator
| Component | Amount | Final concentration (1X) |
|---|---|---|
| Trypan blue | 400 mg | 0.4% (w/v) |
| 1X PBS (or 0.85% saline) | to final volume |
Steps
- Dissolve in PBS and bring to volume.
- Filter (paper or 0.22 µm) to remove particles.
- Store at room temperature.
Good to know
- Count within 3–5 min — longer exposure stains live cells too.
- Multiply the count by the dilution factor of 2.
⚠ Safety A suspected carcinogen — wear gloves.
FAQ
How do I calculate from a hemocytometer?
Mean cells per large square (1 mm², 0.1 µL) × 10⁴ × dilution = cells/mL. The reagent calculator's cell-count tab does this for you.
This is a widely used standard composition. Amounts depend on the hydrate form and purity of your reagents — check the formula weight (FW) on the bottle and follow your institution's safety rules and the manufacturers' instructions.