I have done a number of MTT assay's for a study I am a part of, twice the results showed a very low viability and this crystal formation. I did a later assay following the same procedure, using the same cell line, and same MTT with viable results. What would cause this? Could the MTT mixed for that trial being exposed to light have anything to do with it?
Sebastian Schmitt
the crystals appear after the MTT assay. Observing the cells before assay they look healthy and normal. Thank you for your response.
I would think the MTT is reduced (by chemically or enzymatic processes in cells) to yield insoluble formazan. The formazan likely will not precipitate immediately, and thus much of the formazan likely will form small purple crystals in the external media. I think these particles form the nucleus around which buffer components are crystallizing. Depending on the pH, buffer components such as EDTA, and phosphate salts readily crystallize.
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