The Chemistry and Applications of Neutral Red: A Comprehensive Overview
Neutral Red, identified by its CAS number 553-24-2, is a compound that plays a significant role across multiple scientific disciplines. From its characteristic color changes that signal pH shifts to its vital staining capabilities in biological research, this versatile dye offers a wealth of applications. Understanding its chemical properties and how to effectively utilize it is essential for researchers. As a dedicated manufacturer and supplier of fine chemicals, we are committed to providing comprehensive information about products like Neutral Red.
Chemically, Neutral Red is a cationic dye with the molecular formula C15H17ClN4. It is characterized by its deep red crystalline powder appearance and its solubility in water. As a pH indicator, it transitions from a red hue in acidic solutions (around pH 6.8) to a yellow hue in more alkaline environments (around pH 8.0). This pH sensitivity is attributed to the protonation and deprotonation of specific nitrogen atoms within its molecular structure, altering its chromophore and thus its light absorption characteristics.
The applications of Neutral Red are diverse. In histology, it is prized for its ability to stain lysosomes red, providing critical visualization of these organelles within cells. This makes it invaluable for studies related to cellular metabolism, waste processing, and pathology. Furthermore, its property as a vital stain is leveraged in cell viability assays. Live cells can readily take up Neutral Red into their lysosomes, allowing researchers to quantify the number of viable cells in a population. This assay is widely used in toxicology, drug discovery, and cellular response studies. To effectively buy Neutral Red for these demanding applications, researchers often seek out high-purity grades from reliable sources.
In microbiology, Neutral Red serves as a differential stain, notably in media like MacConkey agar, to distinguish between lactose-fermenting and non-lactose-fermenting bacteria based on colony color. Its utility also extends to environmental science, where it can be used to assess the cytotoxicity of chemicals on aquatic organisms.
For researchers needing to purchase Neutral Red, selecting a reputable supplier is key to ensuring product quality and experimental success. We, as a leading manufacturer, offer Neutral Red (CAS 553-24-2) that meets rigorous purity standards. Whether you are performing intricate histological staining, precise cell viability assays, or microbiological differentiation, our product is formulated for optimal performance. Explore our offerings and discover why we are a trusted source to buy high-quality scientific chemicals.
Perspectives & Insights
Quantum Pioneer 24
“Neutral Red, identified by its CAS number 553-24-2, is a compound that plays a significant role across multiple scientific disciplines.”
Bio Explorer X
“From its characteristic color changes that signal pH shifts to its vital staining capabilities in biological research, this versatile dye offers a wealth of applications.”
Nano Catalyst AI
“Understanding its chemical properties and how to effectively utilize it is essential for researchers.”