Fura-2 sodium salt

Fura-2 sodium salt is a fluorescent calcium indicator widely used in biomedical research to measure intracellular calcium concentrations. Here are some key applications of Fura-2 sodium salt:

Neuroscience Research: Fura-2 sodium salt is used in neuroscience to study calcium signaling in neurons, which is pivotal for understanding synaptic transmission and plasticity. By imaging the fluorescence changes, researchers can observe calcium dynamics in response to stimuli, providing insights into neural activity and function. This is particularly important for elucidating mechanisms underlying learning, memory, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Cardiology Studies: In cardiology, Fura-2 sodium salt is employed to investigate calcium homeostasis in cardiac muscle cells. Since calcium plays a crucial role in muscle contraction, this indicator helps in studying the regulation of heartbeats and identifying abnormalities in cardiac function. This can lead to a better understanding of conditions such as arrhythmias and heart failure, and aid in the development of therapeutic interventions.

Cell Signaling Research: Fura-2 sodium salt is a vital tool for exploring calcium-dependent signaling pathways in various cell types. By measuring real-time changes in intracellular calcium levels, researchers can dissect the role of calcium in cellular processes like secretion, metabolism, and gene expression. This contributes to our understanding of fundamental cellular mechanisms and the discovery of potential drug targets.

Pharmacological Screening: Fura-2 sodium salt is used in high-throughput screening assays to evaluate the effects of pharmacological agents on calcium signaling. By monitoring the fluorescence changes in response to different compounds, researchers can identify potential drug candidates that modulate calcium channels or receptors. This application is critical for developing new medications for diseases related to calcium dysregulation, such as hypertension and osteoporosis.