What is FM 4 64?

FM 4-64: A Vital Dye for Membrane Dynamics Studies

FM 4-64 is a fluorescent dye widely used in the field of cell biology for studying the dynamics of membranes, particularly in the context of endocytosis and vesicle trafficking. Its unique properties allow it to selectively bind to cell membranes, making it an invaluable tool for researchers.

Chemical Properties

FM 4-64 is a styryl dye with a high affinity for phospholipid bilayers. Upon binding to membranes, its fluorescence intensity increases, making it highly effective for live-cell imaging. It is water-soluble and exhibits a red fluorescence when excited, typically around 515 nm, with emission observed near 640 nm.

Applications in Research

• Visualization of endocytosis and exocytosis processes.
• Tracking of vesicle trafficking and membrane dynamics.
• Studying the morphology and function of vacuoles and endosomes in yeast and other cells.
• Assessment of cell viability and membrane integrity.

Advantages of Using FM 4-64

• Non-toxic to cells, allowing for live-cell imaging over extended periods.
• High specificity and affinity for cell membranes.
• Stable under a wide range of experimental conditions.
• Compatible with various fluorescence microscopy techniques.

Usage Guidelines

For effective labeling, cells are typically incubated with FM 4-64 at concentrations ranging from 2 to 10 µM for a few minutes to several hours, depending on the experimental requirements. The dye is then washed away, and cells can be observed under a fluorescence microscope. It is crucial to optimize the concentration and incubation time for each specific application to achieve the best results.

In summary, FM 4-64 serves as a powerful tool for the visualization and analysis of membrane-associated processes in live cells. Its ease of use, combined with its ability to provide detailed insights into cell biology, makes it a staple in many research laboratories.