The present invention relates to methods for detection and evaluation of metabolic
activity of eukaryotic and/or prokaryotic cells based upon their ability to consume
dissolved oxygen. The methods utilize a luminescence detection system which makes
use of the sensitivity of the luminescent emission of certain compounds to the
presence of oxygen, which quenches (diminishes) the compound's luminescent emission
in a concentration dependent manner. Respiring eukaryotic and/or prokaryotic cells
will affect the oxygen concentration of a liquid medium in which they are immersed.
Thus, this invention provides a convenient system to gather information on the
presence, identification, quantification and cytotoxic activity of eukaryotic and/or
prokaryotic cells by determining their effect on the oxygen concentration of the
media in which they are present.
