Structure
FITC-DEAE-dextrans are synthesized from well-characterised dextran fractions derived from Leuconostoc mesenteroides B512F. The degree of substitution for FITC lies between 0.001 – 0.008 and the limits for nitrogen content are 3-5% – corresponding to about one DEAE-substituent per three glucose units. The synthesis of DEAE-dextran introduces two types of DEAE-substituents into the dextran chain (see structure in datafile). The predominant substituent is the single tertiary group, but this reacts further particularly at higher degree of substitution to yield a “tandem” group containing a quaternary amine as well as the tertiary amine.
Spectral data
The excitation maximum for FITC-DEAE-dextran is 490 – 495 nm and the emission maximum is 520 ± 5 nm. Maximum intensity is observed at pH 9.
Storage and stability
FITC-DEAE-dextran is stable for more than 6 years when stored dry in well-sealed containers at ambient temperature.
Solubility
FITC-CM-dextran dissolves readily in water.
Application
FITC-CM-dextran is mainly used for studying permeability and microcirculation. The diethylaminoethyl groups will impart an overall positive charge to the molecule, which may be valuable in gaining information on the permeability characteristics of cell membranes and tissues. Read more about applications here.
