Fluorescent probes and dyes are molecules that can be used to label biological samples and enable their visualization and analysis using fluorescence microscopy and spectroscopy. These probes and dyes absorb light at a specific wavelength and then emit light at a longer wavelength, producing a characteristic emission spectrum. Here are some common types of fluorescent probes and dyes:
- Fluorescein: Fluorescein is a common fluorescent probe that is used in many applications, including immunofluorescence, cell staining, and protein labeling. It absorbs light at around 495 nm and emits light at around 515 nm.
- Rhodamine: Rhodamine is another popular fluorescent dye that is used in many applications, such as DNA staining, protein labeling, and live-cell imaging. It absorbs light at around 555 nm and emits light at around 580 nm.
- Alexa Fluor: Alexa Fluor is a family of fluorescent dyes that are widely used in fluorescence microscopy and spectroscopy. These dyes are highly fluorescent and have a large Stokes shift, which makes them useful for multiplex imaging. They come in a range of colors and can be used to label various biological molecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids.
- DAPI: DAPI is a fluorescent probe that is commonly used for DNA staining in fluorescence microscopy. It absorbs light at around 358 nm and emits light at around 461 nm.
- GFP: Green fluorescent protein (GFP) is a naturally occurring fluorescent protein that is widely used as a fluorescent probe for protein labeling and live-cell imaging. It absorbs light at around 395 nm and emits light at around 509 nm.
- BODIPY: BODIPY is a family of fluorescent dyes that are widely used in fluorescence microscopy and spectroscopy. They have a high quantum yield and good photostability, which makes them useful for imaging in live cells. They come in a range of colors and can be used to label various biological molecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids.
These are just a few examples of the many fluorescent probes and dyes available for use in fluorescence microscopy and spectroscopy. The choice of probe or dye depends on the specific application, such as the type of biological molecule being labeled, the wavelength of excitation and emission, and the sensitivity and specificity required.