Why should cell death be measured using multiple methods?

Researchers require two types of criteria - descriptive, such as imaging as well as functional, and pathway inhibition, in order to comprehensively dissect, characterize, and distinguish between different forms of cell death. For instance, while caspase activation and DNA fragmentation are indicative of apoptosis, they are not conclusive on their own. This is because apoptosis can also take place without DNA fragmentation and caspase activation may be associated with other processes.

Measuring cell death using multiple methods, ideally within the same sample and combining biochemical and morphological assays whenever possible, captures different aspects of the process and offers valuable insights into different cell death pathways. Commonly-used methods for measuring cell death include imaging, flow cytometry, image-based cytometry, TUNEL assays, techniques for imaging adherent cells, and immunological-based assays. By using a combination of techniques, researchers can cross-validate their results and ensure the accuracy and reliability of their findings.