fluorescein isothiocyanate

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fluorescein isothiocyanate

A scientist adds fluorescein isothiocyanate to a sample in the laboratory.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A fluorescent dye used as a biochemical marker: Fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) is a synthetic organic compound that emits a bright green-yellow fluorescence when exposed to blue light. It is a derivative of fluorescein, modified with an isothiocyanate reactive group.
    • A common labeling reagent in biomedical research: Its primary use is to chemically conjugate (bind) to proteins, especially antibodies, enabling their visualization under a fluorescence microscope.
Usage
  • FITC is used to tag molecules so scientists can track their location and movement within cells or tissues.
  • It is a standard tool in techniques like immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, and fluorescence microscopy.
Examples
  • Noun:
    • The antibody was labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate for the imaging experiment.
    • FITC's emission spectrum is well-suited for standard fluorescence filter sets.
Advanced Usage
  • "FITC-conjugated antibody": An antibody that has been chemically linked to FITC, allowing researchers to see where the antibody binds.
    • We used a FITC-conjugated antibody to detect the presence of the viral antigen.
  • "FITC channel": Refers to the specific detection settings on a microscope or flow cytometer optimized for FITC's green fluorescence.
    • The signal was collected in the FITC channel.
Variants and Related Words
  • FITC: The standard and most common abbreviation for fluorescein isothiocyanate.
    • Prepare a solution of FITC in DMSO.
  • Fluorescein: The parent compound from which FITC is derived. Fluorescein itself is also a fluorescent dye but lacks the reactive isothiocyanate group for easy conjugation.
  • Fluorochrome / Fluorophore: General terms for a fluorescent chemical compound. FITC is a specific type of fluorochrome.
Synonyms
  • Fluorescent label: A general term for any fluorescent molecule used for tagging.
  • Fluorescent tracer: Emphasizes its use in tracking biological molecules.
Notes on Meaning
  • The term specifically refers to the chemical compound itself. Its defining characteristic in science is its dual function: it is both fluorescent and has a chemically reactive group (isothiocyanate) that forms stable bonds with proteins.
  • It is almost exclusively used in scientific and medical contexts, particularly in cell biology, immunology, and diagnostic assays.
fluorescein isothiocyanate

A scientist adds fluorescein isothiocyanate to a sample in the laboratory.

Noun
  1. a fluorochrome commonly conjugated with antibodies for use in indirect immunofluorescence

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