BrdU vs. Ki67 - (Oct/19/2008 )

Hello,

I would like to examine proliferation in tumor injected mouse brain.
I would appreciate it if someone could clarify on the advantages and disadvantages of BrdU vs. Ki67.
Also, any help as to both these methods would be greatly appreciated - procedure, recommended Abs etc.

Thanks very much.

BrdU incorporates into the DNA as it is synthesized and should be a bit more stable than Ki67, but will also be more toxic for live injection. As far as I recall it only shows up cells that are actively synthesizing DNA, though it should remain incorporated after synthesis.

Ki67 as a protein based antibody detection won't involve any addition of chemicals to the mouse, thus making ethics easier. Should be fine to use. I think the Wikipedia page has an antibody that should work.