Ethidium monoazide bromide | 58880-05-0

Ethidium monoazide bromide, commonly referred to as EMA, is a photoreactive DNA-binding dye with several crucial applications in bioscience. Here are some key applications of Ethidium monoazide bromide:

Microbiological Viability Assays

Ethidium monoazide bromide is widely used in microbiology to distinguish between live and dead cells. When exposed to light, EMA binds to the DNA of dead cells, preventing them from being amplified in PCR-based assays. This selective binding allows researchers to quantify viable bacterial populations in various samples accurately.

Clinical Diagnostics

In clinical diagnostics, EMA is used in conjunction with quantitative PCR (qPCR) to improve the specificity of pathogen detection. EMA-treated samples allow only the DNA from viable pathogens to be amplified, reducing false positives from dead cells. This method is particularly useful in diagnosing infections and monitoring treatment efficacy in conditions such as sepsis and urinary tract infections.

Environmental Monitoring

EMA is employed in environmental studies to assess the microbial quality of water and soil samples. Treating samples with EMA helps in the differentiation of live microorganisms from dead ones, providing a more accurate picture of the microbial community health. This information is vital for monitoring pollution levels, assessing bioremediation efforts, and ensuring water safety.

Food Safety Testing

In the food industry, EMA is used to enhance the detection of viable foodborne pathogens. By binding to the DNA of dead cells in food samples, EMA enables more accurate quantification of living bacteria, such as Salmonella and Listeria, when combined with PCR techniques. This application is crucial for ensuring food safety and compliance with regulatory standards.