Is Alexa Fluor 647 far-red?

Alexa Fluor 647: A Far-Red Fluorophore

Alexa Fluor 647 is a synthetic fluorophore commonly used in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology for various applications, including fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, and Western blotting. It is part of the Alexa Fluor family, which is known for its photostability and brightness.

Spectral Properties

Alexa Fluor 647 is characterized by its far-red fluorescence. It has an absorption maximum at approximately 650 nm and an emission maximum around 668 nm. This places it in the far-red region of the visible spectrum, making it ideal for applications where low autofluorescence and deep tissue penetration are required.

Advantages of Alexa Fluor 647

• Brightness: It is highly fluorescent, making it easily detectable.
• Photostability: It exhibits high photostability, allowing for longer observation times without significant photobleaching.
• Compatibility: Its spectral properties make it compatible with a wide range of detectors and imaging systems.
• Low Autofluorescence: The far-red emission minimizes interference from autofluorescence in biological samples.

Applications

Alexa Fluor 647 is widely used in a variety of biological and medical research applications. Its far-red emission is particularly advantageous for deep tissue imaging, where longer wavelengths can penetrate more effectively than those in the visible spectrum. It is also used in multiplex assays, where its distinct spectral properties allow it to be used alongside other fluorophores without significant overlap.

In summary, Alexa Fluor 647 is a versatile and highly effective far-red fluorophore that offers several advantages for researchers in the life sciences. Its combination of brightness, photostability, and deep tissue penetration capabilities make it a valuable tool for a wide range of fluorescence-based applications.