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AAT Bioquest

What is a dual-wavelength ion indicator?

Posted July 23, 2021


Answer

A dual-wavelength ion indicator, also known as a ratiometric indicator is a specific type of fluorescent dye that’s used to quantitatively measure intracellular calcium ion (Ca2+ ) concentrations.

Calcium ions are among the most widespread second messengers used in signal transduction pathways in eukaryotic cells. Ca2+ concentrations are regulated by the parathyroid hormone but they cannot be visualized directly in living cells. Fluorescent dual-wavelength ion indicators help to visualize and accurately measure intracellular calcium concentrations.

Fura-2 is the most widely used dual-wavelength ion indicator.

Additional resources

Ratiometric Calcium Indicators

An indicator displacement assay with independent dual wavelength emission

Mag-Fura-2, AM *Cell-permeant*

Fura-2, pentasodium salt