Ethidium homodimer
Ethidium homodimer (CAS: 61926-22-5, Formula: C46H50Cl4N8, MW: 856.75) is a potent fluorescent staining dye used for the detection of nucleic acids. It selectively stains single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), RNA, oligonucleotides, and triplex DNA. Due to its inability to cross intact cell membranes, it is valuable for assessing cell viability in biological research and diagnostics.
- IUPAC
- EtDi,EthD-1
- Synonyms
- EtDiEthD-1

Nucleic Acid Staining
Ethidium homodimer is a fluorescent stain for ssDNA, dsDNA, RNA, oligonucleotides, and triplex DNA. Its strong fluorescence upon binding to nucleic acids makes it ideal for visualization in various molecular biology applications.
Cell Viability Assessment
This compound does not permeate intact cell membranes, making it a useful tool to distinguish between live and dead cells. It is exclusively taken up by cells with compromised membrane integrity, indicating cell death.
Electrophoresis Detection
Used as a fluorescent stain for nucleic acid electrophoresis, Ethidium homodimer facilitates the visualization and analysis of DNA and RNA fragments after separation.
| Molecular weight | 856.75 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C46H50Cl4N8 |
| Assay | ~90% (HPCE) |
| Solubility | DMF: solubleDMSO: solubleH2O: soluble |
| Storage temperature | −20°C |
| Application | Staining dye for ssDNA, dsDNA, RNA, oligonucleotides, and triplex DNA. It will not cross intact cell membranes and can be used to test cell viability. |
| Suitability | suitable for fluorescence |
| Melting point | ≥250 °C(lit.) |



Hazard statements
- H261In contact with water releases flammable gas
- H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
- H351Suspected of causing cancer
Precautionary statements
- P231Handle under inert gas
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
- P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor
- P422
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 3096 4.3(8) / PGII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | C |
| Risk statements (R) | 14-34-40 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36/37/39-45 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Fluorescence | λex 493 nm in H2Oλex 528 nm; λem 617 nm in TE buffer; DNA |
|---|
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 Ethidium homodimer used for?
+
Ethidium homodimer (CAS: 61926-22-5) is a fluorescent stain for ssDNA, dsDNA, RNA, oligonucleotides, and triplex DNA. It is also used to test cell viability as it cannot cross intact cell membranes.
What are the CAS number and formula for Ethidium homodimer?
+
The CAS number for Ethidium homodimer is 61926-22-5 and its molecular formula is C46H50Cl4N8.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies Ethidium homodimer with an assay of ~90% (HPCE). This product is suitable for fluorescence applications and is not represented as USP, BP, EP, or pharmacopoeia grade.
What are the safety and handling considerations for Ethidium homodimer?
+
Ethidium homodimer is a Danger substance. It is flammable gas (H261), causes severe skin burns and eye damage (H314), and is suspected of causing cancer (H351). Always use appropriate personal protective equipment, including a dust mask (type N95 US), eyeshields, and gloves, and handle in a well-ventilated area.
How is Ethidium homodimer shipped or exported by TSS?
+
Ethidium homodimer is shipped as UN 3096, Class 4.3 (8), Packing Group II, indicating it is a substance that, in contact with water, emits flammable gases.
How can I request a quote or sample of Ethidium homodimer?
+
To request a quote or sample of Ethidium homodimer, please contact our sales team through the website or by phone.
▶ Related products
![(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(E)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexenamide (C8H13N3O4) — chemical structure, CAS 138472-01-2; Biochemicals & Reagents, fine chemical supplied by Tech Serve Solutions](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpub-f4d920c906024441a773a96f7098e551.r2.dev%2Fimages%2Fproducts%2F138472-01-2.png&w=3840&q=75)
(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(E)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexenamide
C8H13N3O4
Biochemicals & Reagents![(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(Z)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexen-1-yl-nicotinamide (C14H18N4O4) — chemical structure, CAS 162626-99-5; Biochemicals & Reagents, fine chemical supplied by Tech Serve Solutions](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpub-f4d920c906024441a773a96f7098e551.r2.dev%2Fimages%2Fproducts%2F162626-99-5.png&w=3840&q=75)
(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(Z)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexen-1-yl-nicotinamide
C14H18N4O4
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-2,5-Dimethoxy-4-bromoamphetamine hydrobromide
Biochemicals & Reagents

(±)-2-(p-Methoxyphenoxy)propionic acid
C10H12O4
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-2-Amino-6,7-dihydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene hydrobromide
C10H13NO2·HBr
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-2-Hydroxydecanoic acid
C10H20O3
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-3-Hydroxydecanoic acid
C10H20O3
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-3-Hydroxyoctanoic acid
C8H16O3
Biochemicals & Reagents


