JC-1 Dye (Mitochondrial Membrane Potential Probe)

Storage: −20 °C; protect from light

Synonym: 5,5ʹ,6,6ʹ-Tetrachloro-1,1ʹ,3,3ʹ-tetraethylbenzimidazolylcarbocyanine Iodide

Uses: JC-1 is a cationic, fluorescent carbocyanine dye used as a ratiometric indicator of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) in cells, tissues, and isolated mitochondria. In mitochondria with a high membrane potential, JC-1 accumulates in the mitochondrial matrix and forms aggregates that emit strong red fluorescence (Ex = 585 nm, Em = 590 nm). When the mitochondrial membrane potential decreases, JC-1 remains in its monomeric form and emits green fluorescence (Ex = 510 nm, Em = 527 nm). Mitochondrial depolarization is therefore indicated by a decrease in the red-to-green fluorescence intensity ratio, enabling the detection and monitoring of changes in mitochondrial membrane potential.