Introduction
Aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) is a group of enzymes that convert aldehydes to carboxylic acids, helping prevent oxidative stress, cell death, and DNA damage. The human ALDH superfamily comprises 19 functional genes in three major families; ALDH1/ALDH2 are studied as therapeutic targets in chronic alcoholism, metabolic disorders, and treatment-resistant cancer stem cells, while ALDH3 is implicated in chemo- and radiation-resistance. Monitoring ALDH is important for understanding cancer resistance and metabolic disease.
Assay Principle
Based on a coupled enzyme reaction, acetaldehyde is catalyzed by ALDH to a colored product quantified at 450 nm. The change in absorbance is directly proportional to ALDH activity in the sample.
Product Features
- Simple, reproducible, and sensitive colorimetric assay in a 96-well microplate format
- Read on a standard microplate reader — no specialized instrumentation required
- Compatible with plasma, serum, cell lysates, and other biological fluids
- Includes a standard for quantification against a freshly prepared standard curve
- Results within a single workday
Standard Curve Range
NADH standard: 0–200 µM.
Additional Materials Required
- Microplate reader capable of measuring absorbance at the assay wavelength
- Precision and multi-channel pipettes
- Tubes for preparing sample dilutions
- MilliQ or double-distilled water (ddH2O)
Storage/Stability
Store the entire kit below -20°C for up to 6 months from the date of shipment. After preparation, store individual reagents as described in the kit manual and avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
