What is the difference between trypsin and accutase?

Both trypsin and accutase are mixtures of proteolytic enzymes used for cell detachment and dissociation.

Trypsin

• Derived from porcine pancreas
• Commonly used for detaching anchorage‑dependent cells
• Typically requires an inactivation step (e.g. with serum or Trypsin Neutralizing Solution)

Accutase

• Derived from invertebrate sources
• Can be used to detach anchorage‑dependent cells and to reduce clumping of suspension cells, for example prior to cell counting
• Is more gentle than trypsin and generally results in higher cell viability
• Does not contain mammalian‑ or bacterially derived proteins
• Is more thermolabile than trypsin and usually does not require an inactivation step

Note
The suitability of trypsin or accutase depends on the cell type and application. Please refer to the Instruction Manual of the respective cell type for specific recommendations.