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Acridine Orange

Updated: 2026-08-03

Overview

Acridine Orange is a metachromatic fluorescent dye widely used in molecular biology and cytogenetics for staining nucleic acids. Its ability to differentially stain double-stranded DNA (green fluorescence) and single-stranded DNA or RNA (red fluorescence) makes it a valuable tool for distinguishing nucleic acid types in various applications. The dye was first synthesized in the early 20th century and has since become a staple in research laboratories. Acridine Orange's versatility extends to applications such as flow cytometry, where it helps analyze cell cycle stages, and fluorescence microscopy, where it aids in visualizing nucleic acids within cells. Its use in apoptosis detection is particularly noteworthy, as it can help identify early apoptotic cells by their characteristic staining patterns.

Physical and Chemical Properties

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Acridine Orange appears as an orange to brown crystalline powder with a molecular weight of 265.36 g/mol. It is soluble in water, ethanol, and methanol, making it easy to prepare for various staining protocols. The dye exhibits a melting point of approximately 165-170°C, though precise values may vary slightly depending on the sample purity. One of the most distinctive properties of Acridine Orange is its fluorescence behavior. When bound to double-stranded DNA, it emits green fluorescence (maximum emission around 525 nm), while binding to single-stranded DNA or RNA results in red fluorescence (maximum emission around 650 nm). This metachromatic property is due to the dye's ability to form different types of complexes with nucleic acids, depending on their structure.

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Main Applications

Acridine Orange is primarily used in nucleic acid staining for research and diagnostic purposes. In flow cytometry, it helps distinguish between live, apoptotic, and necrotic cells based on their differential uptake and fluorescence. This application is particularly useful in cancer research and drug development studies. The dye is also employed in fluorescence microscopy to visualize nucleic acids in cells and tissues. Its ability to differentiate between DNA and RNA makes it valuable for studying gene expression and cellular processes. Additionally, Acridine Orange is used in environmental microbiology to assess bacterial viability in water samples and in virology to detect viral nucleic acids.

Safety and Storage

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Acridine Orange is classified as a potential mutagen and should be handled with care. Proper personal protective equipment, including gloves and lab coats, should be worn when working with the dye. Avoid inhalation of dust and direct contact with skin or eyes. Work should be conducted in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood. For storage, keep the dye in its original container, tightly sealed, and protected from light. Store in a cool, dry place at room temperature or as recommended by the supplier. Solutions of Acridine Orange should be prepared fresh when possible, as they may degrade over time. Dispose of waste according to local regulations for hazardous chemicals.

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B2B Procurement Guide

When procuring Acridine Orange for B2B purposes, prioritize suppliers with a proven track record in providing high-quality biochemical reagents. Verify the dye's purity (typically >95% for research-grade material) and request certificates of analysis. Consider bulk purchasing for cost savings if the dye is used regularly in your operations. Evaluate suppliers based on their storage and shipping practices to ensure product integrity upon arrival. For international shipments, confirm that the supplier complies with all relevant regulations for chemical transport. Establish long-term relationships with reliable suppliers to ensure consistent quality and availability. Some manufacturers offer custom formulations or concentrations, which may be worth exploring for specific applications.

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