GelRed is an intercalating nucleic acid stain used in molecular genetics for agarose gel DNA electrophoresis. GelRed structurally consists of two ethidium subunits that are bridged by a linear oxygenated spacer.[1][2]
GelRed is a fluorophore, and its optical properties are essentially identical to those of ethidium bromide. When exposed to ultraviolet light, it fluoresces with an orange color that strongly intensifies after binding to DNA.[3] The substance is marketed as a less toxic and more sensitive alternative to ethidium bromide.[3] GelRed is sold as a solution in anhydrous DMSO or ultrapurified water.[3] GelRed is unable to cross cell membranes.[4]
See also
References
- ^ a b c US application 2010323453, Mao, Fei & Leung, Wai-Yee, ”Methods of Using Dyes in Association with Nucleic Acid Staining or Detection and Associated Technology”
- ^ GelRed & GelGreen (PDF), Biotium Inc., August 21, 2012, retrieved December 4, 2012
- ^ a b c GelRed and GelGreen: Environmentally safe and ultra-sensitive nucleic acid gel stains for replacing EtBr, Biotium Inc., retrieved December 4, 2012
- ^ Carson, Susan; Miller, Heather B.; Witherow, D. Scott (2012-01-01). “Lab Session 3 – PCR Amplification of egfp and Completion of Vector Preparation”. Molecular Biology Techniques (3rd ed.). Academic Press. pp. 21–29. doi:10.1016/B978-0-12-385544-2.00003-X. ISBN 978-0-12-385544-2.