What does Alexa Fluor 488 mean?
Share
Alexa Fluor 488
Alexa Fluor 488 is a fluorescent dye used extensively in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology. It is part of the Alexa Fluor family of dyes, which are known for their superior photostability, brightness, and spectral properties. Alexa Fluor 488, in particular, is designed for the green spectrum, making it a popular choice for fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, and other fluorescence-based applications.
Chemical Properties
- Bright green fluorescence
- Excitation/Emission: 488 nm/519 nm
- High photostability
- Water-soluble
Applications
- Fluorescence microscopy
- Flow cytometry
- Immunofluorescence
- Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH)
Advantages
- High fluorescence intensity
- Low photobleaching rate
- Compatible with a wide range of instruments
- Can be conjugated to a variety of antibodies and other proteins
Comparison with Other Fluorophores
Alexa Fluor 488 is often preferred over other green-fluorescent dyes like FITC (Fluorescein isothiocyanate) due to its enhanced brightness and stability. This makes it an ideal choice for experiments requiring long-term imaging or high sensitivity.
In summary, Alexa Fluor 488 is a versatile and reliable dye that has become a staple in fluorescent labeling for biological research. Its exceptional optical properties and compatibility with various biological samples make it an invaluable tool for scientists aiming to visualize and analyze molecular processes.