Is Alexa Fluor 700 bright?
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Overview of Alexa Fluor 700
Alexa Fluor 700 is a fluorescent dye used extensively in the field of biochemistry and cell biology for imaging and flow cytometry applications. It is part of the Alexa Fluor family, which is known for its photostability, brightness, and wide range of excitation/emission spectra.
Brightness and Performance
When evaluating the brightness of fluorescent dyes, it is essential to consider both the extinction coefficient and the quantum yield. The extinction coefficient measures how efficiently a dye absorbs light, while the quantum yield indicates the efficiency with which absorbed light is converted into emitted light. Alexa Fluor 700, specifically, is designed to offer a balance between these properties, providing reliable and consistent performance in various applications.
However, it's important to note that the perceived brightness of a fluorescent dye can also depend on the specific application and the detection equipment used. Alexa Fluor 700 is optimized for use in the near-infrared (NIR) region, making it particularly suitable for applications where background autofluorescence is a concern, as NIR fluorescence is generally less affected by biological materials.
Applications
- Imaging in cell and molecular biology
- Flow cytometry
- Fluorescence microscopy
- Western blotting
In conclusion, while Alexa Fluor 700 may not be the brightest dye in the entire Alexa Fluor series, its specific properties make it highly valuable for applications requiring near-infrared detection. Its performance is characterized by a good balance of absorption and emission efficiency, making it a reliable choice for researchers.