Hoechst 33258, UltraPure grade (CAS 23491-45-4)

Hoechst 33258, UltraPure grade, with the CAS number 23491-45-4, is a synthetic bis-benzimidazole derivative that has found extensive application in biochemical research primarily due to its ability to bind selectively to the minor groove of DNA. This binding is adenine-thymine (AT) specific, making Hoechst 33258 a valuable tool for studying DNA structure and dynamics. The chemical′s fluorescence properties are particularly notable; it exhibits strong fluorescence enhancement upon binding to DNA, which is exploited in various nucleic acid assays. This characteristic enables researchers to visualize and quantify DNA in cellular and molecular biology experiments, such as fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry. Moreover, the compound′s ability to bind selectively to DNA without significant disruption to the double helix makes it an excellent agent for differentiating DNA in mixed samples, and for detecting changes in DNA conformation under various experimental conditions. Hoechst 33258 has also been instrumental in the development of new techniques for studying chromosomal DNA in live cells, providing insights into the organization and function of the nucleus. Additionally, its use extends to biophysical experiments designed to explain mechanisms of DNA interaction with proteins and other ligands, enhancing our understanding of molecular biology at a fundamental level.