The English name for "propidium iodide" is the same as its IUPAC name. An English alias for this compound is often abbreviated as "PI," which stands for propidium iodide. Propidium iodide is a fluorescent intercalating agent commonly used in molecular biology and cytometry to stain DNA.Propidium iodide (PI) is a fluorescent dye commonly used in molecular biology and cytometry applications. With the molecular formula C27H34I2N4, it serves as a nucleic acid stain, particularly for DNA. Propidium iodide is known for its selective binding to double-stranded DNA and its application in various assays, including cell cycle analysis and cell viability assessments.
Features:
Fluorescent Properties:
Exhibits strong fluorescence upon binding to DNA, making it suitable for visualization.
Selective DNA Binding:
Specifically binds to double-stranded DNA, enabling precise DNA content analysis.
Cell Permeability:
Penetrates cell membranes and stains the nucleus, distinguishing live and dead cells based on membrane integrity.
Cell Cycle Analysis:
Widely utilized in cell cycle studies to assess cell distribution across different phases.
Cytometry Applications:
Integral in flow cytometry and microscopy techniques for DNA visualization.
Applications:
Fluorescent DNA Staining:
Used as a fluorescent dye to stain DNA for visualization in various molecular biology applications.
Cell Viability Assays:
Applied in viability assays to distinguish between live and dead cells based on membrane integrity.
Cell Cycle Analysis:
Widely used in cell cycle studies to assess cell distribution across different phases.
Flow Cytometry:
Integral in flow cytometry techniques for DNA content analysis.
