Fluorescein isothiocyanate–dextran

FITC-Dextran, also known as fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled dextran, is a versatile molecular marker extensively applied in cell and tissue research, encompassing biochemical investigations. This compound is the result of linking the fluorescent FITC dye with dextran, a polysaccharide composed of branching glucose molecules of varied lengths. FITC-Dextrans are instrumental in the examination of cell and tissue permeability, providing vital quantitative data, making them indispensable in both biomedical and biochemical research.

In biochemical investigations focused on the blood-brain barrier (BBB), FITC-Dextran, particularly the variant with an average molecular weight of 4000, holds a central role. It serves as a dependable tool for evaluating the permeability of solutes, ions, and proteins across the BBB, facilitating an improved understanding of the barrier′s integrity and any potential disruptions. This contribution to biochemical exploration is invaluable in shedding light on the brain′s defense mechanisms.

Additionally, FITC-Dextran plays a pivotal role in studies related to cell permeability within the area of biochemical research. This extends to the assessment of BBB permeability and the extent of disruptions within the BBB, aspects that are fundamental to neuroscience and drug delivery research. These biochemical research facets are essential for comprehending disease mechanisms and formulating effective therapeutic strategies.

Furthermore, FITC-Dextran is a cornerstone in cardiovascular, microcirculation, and perfusion studies. It operates as a fluorescent flux tracer compound, allowing for the measurement of critical processes like blood flow, membrane integrity, vascular drainage, and renal elimination. In conclusion, FITC-Dextran proves to be an indispensable asset in the fields of biology, biochemistry, and medicine, offering unparalleled insights into the intricacies of cellular and tissue permeability, the integrity of the blood-brain barrier, and the understanding of diverse physiological and pathological processes.

Dextran labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate has been used:

• as a tracer molecule in membrane permeability study

FITC-dextran is used extensively in microcirculation and cell permeability research utilizing microfluorimetry. FITC-dextran has been used to study plant cell wall porosity and capillary permeability. Plasma proteins have been shown not to bind to FITC-dextran.

FITC-dextran is used in cardiovascular, microcirculation, perfusion, cell monolayer and cell membrane permeability research as fluorescent flux tracer compound that supports the measurement of processes such as blood flow, membrane damage, vascular drainage and renal elimination. Small FITC-dextrans are also used to measure processes such as endocytosis and cell junction permeability. 5kDa FITC-dextran may be used to calibrate microscale diffusion measurements. 5kDa FITC-dextran may be used to measure gut permeability in gut barrier dysfunction research.

Dextran labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate for possible use in perfusion studies in animals.

FITC-Dextran serves as a versatile fluorescent tracer extensively used in biological and physiological research. Its primary actions encompass the assessment of permeability in biological barriers, such as the blood-brain barrier, cell membranes, and vascular walls. It is also utilized to investigate cellular uptake mechanisms, endocytosis, and cell junction permeability, focussing on essential cellular processes. FITC-Dextran aids in measuring blood flow, vascular drainage, and renal elimination, providing insights into microcirculation and capillary dynamics. Further, this marker is also instrumental in understanding tissue and organ characteristics and can serve as a valuable tool for tracing molecules, contributing to the exploration of a wide array of biochemical phenomena.

Sigma typically tests the solubility of FITC dextrans in water at concentrations at or above 25 mg/ml. Solutions should be protected from light. In vivo, FITC-dextran is stable for more than 24 hours.

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