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| Name | X-Gal for molecular biology |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in DMSO, DMF, and dimethylformamide |
| Storage Condition | Store at -20°C in a dry and dark place |
| Molecular Weight | 408.34 g/mol |
| Purity | ≥ 99% |
| Melting Point | 225-229°C |
| Applications | Used as a substrate for β-galactosidase in blue/white screening |
| Handling | Avoid contact with skin and eyes |
| Shelf Life | 2 years |
| Specific Activity | ≥ 200 μg of X-Gal per mg of solid |
FAQ
What is X-Gal and what is its role in molecular biology research?
X-Gal (5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl-β-D-galactopyranoside) is a chromogenic substrate commonly used in molecular biology research. It is frequently used in conjunction with β-galactosidase, an enzyme that cleaves X-Gal to produce a blue precipitate.
How is X-Gal used in molecular biology experiments?
X-Gal is often incorporated into nutrient media to identify and select for recombinant bacterial colonies that contain plasmids with the lacZ gene, which encodes for β-galactosidase. In the presence of X-Gal, β-galactosidase cleaves the substrate to produce a blue color, allowing researchers to easily identify colonies containing the gene of interest.
What are the advantages of using X-Gal in molecular biology research?
One of the main advantages of using X-Gal is its ease of use and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, the blue color produced by β-galactosidase cleavage of X-Gal allows for quick and easy identification of positive colonies, saving time and resources in the research process.
Are there any limitations or considerations when using X-Gal in molecular biology experiments?
While X-Gal is a widely used substrate in molecular biology research, there are some limitations to consider. For example, X-Gal may not be suitable for all types of assays or experimental conditions. Additionally, researchers should be aware of potential side reactions or interference that may affect the accuracy of their results.
Can X-Gal be used in other types of assays or applications outside of molecular biology research?
Yes, X-Gal can also be used in other types of applications outside of molecular biology research. For example, X-Gal can be used in enzymatic assays, histochemical staining procedures, and other biochemical studies. Researchers may find additional uses for X-Gal in their specific research projects beyond its traditional role in molecular biology experiments.
X-Gal (5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl-β-D-galactopyranoside) is a chromogenic substrate commonly used in molecular biology research. It is frequently used in conjunction with β-galactosidase, an enzyme that cleaves X-Gal to produce a blue precipitate.
How is X-Gal used in molecular biology experiments?
X-Gal is often incorporated into nutrient media to identify and select for recombinant bacterial colonies that contain plasmids with the lacZ gene, which encodes for β-galactosidase. In the presence of X-Gal, β-galactosidase cleaves the substrate to produce a blue color, allowing researchers to easily identify colonies containing the gene of interest.
What are the advantages of using X-Gal in molecular biology research?
One of the main advantages of using X-Gal is its ease of use and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, the blue color produced by β-galactosidase cleavage of X-Gal allows for quick and easy identification of positive colonies, saving time and resources in the research process.
Are there any limitations or considerations when using X-Gal in molecular biology experiments?
While X-Gal is a widely used substrate in molecular biology research, there are some limitations to consider. For example, X-Gal may not be suitable for all types of assays or experimental conditions. Additionally, researchers should be aware of potential side reactions or interference that may affect the accuracy of their results.
Can X-Gal be used in other types of assays or applications outside of molecular biology research?
Yes, X-Gal can also be used in other types of applications outside of molecular biology research. For example, X-Gal can be used in enzymatic assays, histochemical staining procedures, and other biochemical studies. Researchers may find additional uses for X-Gal in their specific research projects beyond its traditional role in molecular biology experiments.
