Acridine yellow

Acridine dye used as a fluorescent stain in biological research

Acridine yellow is a fluorescent dye belonging to the acridine family of compounds. It is primarily used as a biological stain in various microscopy techniques and fluorescence microscopy applications. Acridine yellow is known for its ability to bind to nucleic acids, making it useful in the study of DNA and RNA within cells.

Chemical Properties

Acridine yellow is a heterocyclic compound with the chemical formula C₁₅H₁₅N₃. It is characterized by its bright yellow color and its ability to fluoresce under ultraviolet light. The compound is soluble in water and various organic solvents, which makes it versatile for use in different experimental conditions.

Applications

Acridine yellow is widely used in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology. Its primary application is as a fluorescent stain for nucleic acids. When bound to DNA or RNA, acridine yellow emits a bright fluorescence, allowing researchers to visualize and study the structure and function of genetic material within cells.

Microscopy

In fluorescence microscopy, acridine yellow is used to stain cellular structures such as the nucleus and cytoplasm. It is particularly useful in distinguishing between live and dead cells in a sample, as it can penetrate cell membranes and bind to nucleic acids.

Flow Cytometry

Acridine yellow is also employed in flow cytometry to analyze the cell cycle and apoptosis. Its ability to bind to DNA allows for the quantification of DNA content in individual cells, providing insights into cell proliferation and death.

Safety and Handling

As with many chemical dyes, acridine yellow should be handled with care. It is important to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and goggles when working with this compound. Additionally, it should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent degradation.

Gallery

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  Acridine yellow structure

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  3D model of acridine yellow

Related pages

• Acridine orange
• Fluorescent dye
• Microscopy
• Nucleic acid staining