Is Texas Red a fluorophore?
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Is Texas Red a Fluorophore?
Yes, Texas Red is indeed a fluorophore. A fluorophore is a fluorescent chemical compound that can re-emit light upon light excitation. Texas Red, with its high fluorescence quantum yield and photostability, is widely used in molecular biology and biochemistry for labeling and detection purposes.
Key Features of Texas Red
- Excitation/Emission: It has an excitation maximum at approximately 595 nm and an emission maximum at about 615 nm, making it visible in the red part of the spectrum.
- Applications: Used in various applications including fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH).
- Compatibility: It is often conjugated to antibodies, peptides, proteins, and other molecules for specific targeting and detection in complex biological systems.
Advantages of Using Texas Red
- Photostability: It is more photostable than many other fluorophores, allowing for longer observation times under fluorescence microscopy.
- Brightness: Texas Red is known for its high brightness and quantum yield, which makes it an excellent choice for fluorescence-based experiments.
- Low Photobleaching: Exhibits lower rates of photobleaching compared to other fluorophores, enhancing the reliability of experimental results.
Comparison Table of Texas Red with Other Fluorophores
| Fluorophore | Excitation Max (nm) | Emission Max (nm) | Photostability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas Red | 595 | 615 | High |
| Fluorescein | 495 | 520 | Medium |
| Rhodamine | 550 | 570 | High |
| GFP | 488 | 507 | Variable |
In summary, Texas Red is a highly effective fluorophore used in a variety of scientific and research applications due to its optimal properties for fluorescence-based detection and imaging.