5-Cyano-2,3-di-(p-tolyl)tetrazolium chloride (CAS 90217-02-0)

5-Cyano-2,3-di-(p-tolyl)tetrazolium chloride, with CAS number 90217-02-0, is a distinctly structured chemical compound belonging to the family of tetrazolium salts. This compound is particularly noted for its utility in various biochemical assays, primarily serving as a redox indicator. The core mechanism by which 5-Cyano-2,3-di-(p-tolyl)tetrazolium chloride functions revolves around its ability to undergo reduction, a process where it is transformed from a colorless form into a deeply colored formazan product. This transformation is pivotal in research methodologies that require visual detection of metabolic activities, particularly in the study of cellular respiration and enzyme activities. The tetrazolium salt is reduced by cellular dehydrogenases, enzymes that play crucial roles in oxidation-reduction reactions within cells. This reduction only occurs in metabolically active cells, allowing researchers to use this compound as a marker for cell viability and cellular respiration. The color change that accompanies the reduction process can be quantitatively measured using spectrophotometry, providing precise insights into the metabolic activity levels within the sample being studied. Thus, 5-Cyano-2,3-di-(p-tolyl)tetrazolium chloride serves as an indispensable tool in biochemistry and molecular biology for non-therapeutic investigations into cellular functions and mechanisms.