PARP Universal Colorimetric Assay

Poly (ADP-ribose) Polymerase (PARP) is an abundant enzyme present in all somatic cells that is activated upon DNA damage. It attaches to regions of damaged DNA and catalyzes the NAD-dependent ADP-ribosylation of itself and adjacent nuclear proteins. During apoptosis, PARP is specifically cleaved by caspases and is no longer activated by DNA damage, preventing apoptotic cells from repairing their DNA. The PARP Universal Colorimetric Assay measures the activity of PARP in cells and tissues by detecting the incorporation of biotinylated Poly (ADP-ribose) onto histone proteins. This assay is useful for testing whether DNA is damaged, if damaged DNA is from non-apoptotic cells, or to assay the effectiveness of PARP inhibitors.

Schematic Representation of the Function of PARP Following DNA Damage. Following DNA damage, PARP catalyzes the ADP-ribosylation of itself and adjacent nuclear proteins. This modification is involved in signaling DNA damage and aiding in DNA repair in normal, viable cells (right). During apoptosis, PARP is cleaved by caspases and can no longer be activated by DNA damage, preventing apoptotic cells from repairing their DNA (left).

PARP Universal Colorimetric Assay

Complete kits contain Histone-Coated Plates, PARP-HAS Enzyme, Streptavidin-HRP, TACS-Sapphire™, activated DNA, and reagents necessary for generating positive controls.

Label: Streptavidin-HRP/TACS-Sapphire
Testing Format: Colorimetric Assay
Sample Type: Unfixed cells, Fresh tissues
Size: 96 Tests (Catalog # 4677-096-K)

Supplemental PARP Assay Reagents

Nicotinamide (Catalog # TB4106-RMU)

Inhibitor of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). 

Biotin-NAD+ (Catalog # 6573)

Non-isotopic alternative to radiolabeled NAD for studies requiring this substrate. Can be used with PARP Assay.

Poly(ADP-ribose) Polymer/pADPr (Catalog # 4336-100-01)

Western Blotting standard.