What is the emission range of AF488?
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Emission Range of AF488
AF488, also known as Alexa Fluor 488, is a widely used fluorescent dye in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology. It is particularly favored for its photostability and bright fluorescence. The emission range of AF488 is a critical parameter for researchers utilizing this dye in various applications such as fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH).
Emission Characteristics
AF488 has an excitation maximum at approximately 490 nm, which falls within the blue spectrum of visible light. Upon excitation, AF488 emits fluorescence with a peak emission at around 525 nm, placing it in the green region of the spectrum. This characteristic green fluorescence is easily detectable with standard fluorescence microscopy equipment and is compatible with a wide range of detectors and filters designed for green fluorescent proteins (GFP) and other green fluorophores.
Applications and Importance
The emission range of AF488 makes it an invaluable tool in the life sciences. Its compatibility with GFP filters allows for seamless integration into existing laboratory setups. Moreover, the bright and stable emission of AF488 facilitates long-term imaging experiments, contributing to its popularity in live-cell imaging, protein labeling, and nucleic acid staining.
For detailed spectral data and compatibility with specific instruments, researchers are encouraged to consult technical datasheets and fluorescence equipment manuals.