D-Luciferin
D-Luciferin (CAS: 2591-17-5; Formula: C11H8N2O3S2; Molar Mass: 280.32 g/mol) is a synthetic biochemical compound. It serves as a crucial substrate for the enzyme firefly luciferase, exhibiting a Michaelis constant (Km) of approximately 2 μM. This property makes it invaluable in various bioluminescence-based assays and research applications, particularly for detecting ATP and studying enzymatic activity.
- IUPAC
- (S)-2-(6-Hydroxy-2-benzothiazolyl)-2-thiazoline-4-carboxylic acid,4,5-Dihydro-2-(6-hydroxy-2-benzothiazolyl)-4-thiazolecarboxylic acid,Firefly Luciferin
- Synonyms
- (S)-2-(6-Hydroxy-2-benzothiazolyl)-2-thiazoline-4-carboxylic acid4,5-Dihydro-2-(6-hydroxy-2-benzothiazolyl)-4-thiazolecarboxylic acidFirefly Luciferin

Bioluminescence Assays
D-Luciferin is the key substrate for firefly luciferase, producing light upon enzymatic oxidation. This reaction is widely used in reporter gene assays and high-throughput screening for drug discovery and research.
Enzyme Kinetics Studies
With a well-defined Km of approximately 2 μM for firefly luciferase, D-Luciferin is ideal for studying the kinetics and characterization of luciferase enzymes in various biological systems.
ATP Detection
The light-generating reaction catalyzed by luciferase using D-Luciferin is highly sensitive to the presence of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), enabling its quantification in biological samples.
Cell Viability Assays
As a component in ATP-dependent luminescent assays, D-Luciferin indirectly contributes to the assessment of cell viability and proliferation in cellular research.
| Molecular weight | 280.32 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C11H8N2O3S2 |
| Storage temperature | −20°C |
| Application | Substrate for firefly luciferase with a Km of approx 2 μM. |
| Biological source | synthetic |
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Gloves, type N95 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Quality Level | PREMIUM |
|---|---|
| Fluorescence | λex 328 nm; λem 532 nm in H2O |
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is D-Luciferin primarily used for?
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D-Luciferin (CAS: 2591-17-5) is primarily used as a substrate for firefly luciferase in bioluminescence assays, enabling the detection of ATP and the study of gene expression and enzymatic activity.
What are the CAS number and chemical formula for D-Luciferin?
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The CAS number for D-Luciferin is 2591-17-5, and its chemical formula is C11H8N2O3S2.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies D-Luciferin at a PREMIUM quality level. The exact assay and purity are detailed in the product specifications. Tech Serve Solutions does not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should D-Luciferin be handled safely?
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D-Luciferin requires careful handling. Appropriate personal protective equipment includes eyeshields, gloves, and a type N95 (US) or type P1 (EN143) respirator filter. The product has a WGK Germany rating of 3, indicating a high hazard to water.
How is D-Luciferin packed, shipped, and exported?
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D-Luciferin is typically stored at -20°C. Tech Serve Solutions, as a global supplier and exporter, adheres to strict regulations for packing, shipping, and exporting chemical products worldwide.
How can I request a sample or quote for D-Luciferin?
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To request a sample or a quotation for D-Luciferin, please contact the Tech Serve Solutions sales team through our official website or contact channels.
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