Fluorochromes

Definition

Fluorochromes are fluorescent molecules used as stains in microscopy to label and visualize specific components of cells or tissues. They absorb light at a particular wavelength and emit it at a longer wavelength, making the labeled structures visible under a fluorescence microscope.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fluorochromes are essential for fluorescence microscopy, allowing scientists to study cellular structures and functions.
2. Commonly used fluorochromes include fluorescein, rhodamine, and DAPI.
3. They can be conjugated to antibodies or other molecules to target specific cellular components.
4. The choice of fluorochrome depends on its excitation and emission spectra, which must match the microscope's filters.
5. Photobleaching is a potential issue with fluorochromes, where prolonged exposure to light can reduce their fluorescence.

Review Questions

• What is the primary function of fluorochromes in microscopy?
• Name three commonly used fluorochromes.
• Why is it important to match the excitation and emission spectra of a fluorochrome with the microscope's filters?

Related terms

Fluorescence Microscopy: A type of microscopy that uses fluorescence to generate an image.

Antibody Labeling: A technique where antibodies are tagged with fluorochromes to detect specific proteins or antigens in cells.

Photobleaching: The loss of fluorescence from fluorochromes due to prolonged exposure to light.