Fluorescein-6-isothiocyanate | 18861-78-4

Fluorescein-6-isothiocyanate (FITC), a fluorescent dye renowned for its ability to covalently bond with proteins and molecules, finds common use in bioscience. Here are four key applications of fluorescein-6-isothiocyanate:

Flow Cytometry: Widely adopted in flow cytometry, FITC plays a pivotal role in labeling antibodies to enable the detection and quantification of specific cell populations. By attaching FITC to antibodies targeting particular antigens, researchers can delve into the expression of cell surface and intracellular markers. This practice is indispensable for immunophenotyping, cell sorting, and exploring the dynamics of the cell cycle.

Immunofluorescence Microscopy: Within the realm of immunofluorescence microscopy, FITC shines as a tool for visualizing protein localization within cells and tissues. Employing FITC-conjugated antibodies, scientists can precisely target and illuminate proteins of interest using a fluorescence microscope. This technique is critical for exploring cellular structures, protein-protein interactions, and the subcellular whereabouts of key components.

DNA and RNA Probing: FITC emerges as a valuable asset when conjugated to nucleic acid probes for the detection and mapping of specific DNA or RNA sequences within cells and tissues. This application finds relevance in methodologies like fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), aiding in the examination of chromosomal anomalies, gene expression patterns, and the spatial arrangement of genetic material. The vibrant fluorescence emitted by FITC facilitates sensitive and accurate detection of nucleic acids.

Protein Labeling: In various biochemical assays, including Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), FITC is frequently enlisted to label proteins. By tagging proteins with FITC, researchers can ascertain and quantify target proteins through fluorescence-based detection techniques. This practice proves valuable for investigating protein expression, post-translational modifications, and protein-protein interactions, shedding light on the intricate world of cellular mechanisms.