Acriflavin for biochemistry

Acriflavin for biochemistry is a high-purity, laboratory-grade red or reddish-brown crystalline compound commonly used as a fluorescent dye, biological stain, and antimicrobial agent in biochemical and microbiological research.​

Chemical Properties

Chemical Name: Acriflavin (often supplied as acriflavine hydrochloride).​

Molecular Formula: C₁₄H₁₄N₃Cl.​

Molecular Weight: 259.74 g/mol.​

CAS Number: 8048-52-0 or 8063-24-9.​

Appearance: Red or orange-red crystalline powder.​

Purity (Assay): 98.5–105% on dry/anhydrous basis.​

Solubility: Soluble in water and alcohol.​

Sulphated Ash: Max. 1.0% w/w.​

Water Content: Max. 6.5% w/w.​

pH (aqueous solution): Neutral to slightly acidic.​

Principal Applications in Biochemistry

Fluorescent Staining: Used for fluorescent labeling and staining of nucleic acids (DNA, RNA) and proteins, facilitating their visualization in gel electrophoresis and fluorescence microscopy.​

Antimicrobial Agent: Acts as a topical antiseptic and antimicrobial agent for wound treatment, laboratory culture disinfection, and as an antiviral/antifungal compound in various biological models.​

Biological Research: Intercalates into DNA, inhibiting bacterial and viral replication, and is used to study nucleic acid behavior, cell cycle dynamics, and gene expression.​

Cancer and Drug Resistance Research: Investigated for its ability to inhibit HIF-1α (Hypoxia inducible factor) and sensitize cancer cells to therapy—an emerging area in biomedical research.​

Safety and Handling

Acriflavin is poisonous and may irritate eyes, skin, and the respiratory system; appropriate PPE is required during laboratory handling.​

Should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture for maximum shelf life.​

Stains skin and surfaces easily and requires care in use and cleanup