
Description
Bluo-Gal (5-Bromo-3-indolyl β-D-galactopyranoside) is a chromogenic substrate for β-galactosidase (LacZ), used to determine the presence or absence of a cloned DNA inserted in bacteria growing on agar plates.
When it is hydrolyzed by β-galactosidase, the resulting product will form a blue precipitate. The precipitate is insoluble in alcohol and xylenes, thus it is suitable for immunoblotting and immunocytochemical assays.
Upon microscopic examination under polarized light, the precipitated crystals emit a strong signal consisting of yellow reflected light. Because of this property, Bluo-Gal has more potent sensitivity of the staining method for β-galactosidase and has optimal morphological resolution.
Bluo-Gal can be used as an alternative of X-Gal. Lac+ colonies grown in the presence of Bluo-Gal turn a deeper blue color more intense than X-Gal, allowing for easy differentiation between lac+ and lac- colonies.
Applications
• Confirmation of cloned DNA insert in bacteria
• Lac gene detection systems
• Detection of β-gal activity by electron microscopy
• Immunoblotting
• Immunocytochemical assays
• Used in conjunction with IPTG for blue-white screening
References
• “Improved in situ β-galactosidase staining for histological analysis of transgenic mice”
• “lacZ Transgenic mice to monitor gene expression in embryo and adult”
Not for human therapeutic use or for medicinal purposes. For research applications only.
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Handling | Use only in area provided with appropriate exhaust ventilation. Keep away from heat and source of ignition. Empty containers pose a fire risk, evaporate residue under fume hood. Ground all equipment containing material. Do not breathe dust. |