What is the principle of CVS assay?

CVS (crystal violet staining) is used for the indirect quantification of cell death. It is based on the principle that cells lose their adherence and separate from cell culture plates during cell death. Crystal violet dye binds to and dyes DNA and proteins of viable cells leaving dead cells unstained. CVS assay allows researchers to quickly and reliably examine the impact of compounds such as chemotherapeutics on cell survival and potential growth inhibition factors.