XFD680, manufactured by AAT Bioquest, is a bright near-infrared fluorescent dye structurally similar to Alexa Fluor™ 680 (Thermo Fisher). It exhibits a high fluorescence quantum yield, excellent photostability, and superior aqueous solubility, ensuring consistent and reliable performance in various applications. Its pH-independent fluorescence across a broad range (pH 4–11) allows it to maintain stability under diverse experimental conditions. The dye also enables high molar ratio protein conjugation with minimal self-quenching, producing brighter conjugates and enhancing detection sensitivity. Its long-wavelength emission minimizes interference from autofluorescent background signals, enabling accurate detection in complex biological systems.

XFD680 is optimized for red laser excitation and is compatible with flow cytometers equipped with spectral detection systems. It delivers robust and uniform labeling, with high signal intensity and reproducibility, making it ideal for fluorescence imaging, flow cytometry, and other analytical techniques. XFD680 is also widely utilized in advanced applications such as multiplexed western blot detection and stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (STORM), where its superior photophysical properties enhance resolution and sensitivity.

The maleimide derivative of XFD680 is widely used for labeling biomolecules with free thiol (SH) groups, including antibodies, proteins, thiol-modified oligonucleotides, and low molecular weight ligands. Maleimides react readily with sulfhydryl groups, forming stable thio-ether bonds between the dye and the biomolecule, facilitating robust and reliable labeling for diverse experimental applications.