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.