Amido black 10B

Amido Black 10B

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Chemical structure of Amido Black 10B

Amido Black 10B is a synthetic azo dye used primarily in biochemistry and forensic science for staining proteins on nitrocellulose membranes in Western blotting and for enhancing fingerprints in forensic investigations.

Chemical Properties

Amido Black 10B is an acid dye that belongs to the azo dye class, characterized by the presence of one or more azo groups (-N=N-) as part of their molecular structure. The dye is known for its intense blue-black color, which makes it particularly useful for visualizing proteins and other biological materials.

Applications

Biochemistry

In biochemistry, Amido Black 10B is widely used for staining proteins in polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and Western blotting. The dye binds to the amino acids in proteins, allowing for the visualization of protein bands on gels and membranes. This is crucial for analyzing protein expression, molecular weight, and purity.

Forensic Science

In forensic science, Amido Black 10B is employed to enhance latent fingerprints on porous and non-porous surfaces. The dye reacts with the proteins present in the fingerprint residue, producing a dark blue-black color that enhances the visibility of the fingerprint patterns. This technique is particularly useful on surfaces where traditional fingerprint powders may not be effective.

Safety and Handling

Amido Black 10B, like many chemical dyes, should be handled with care. It is important to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and goggles when working with the dye to prevent skin and eye irritation. Proper ventilation should be ensured to avoid inhalation of any dust or fumes.

Related Pages

• Azo dye
• Western blotting
• Forensic science
• Protein electrophoresis