Fluorescamine
Fluorescamine (CAS: 38183-12-9, Formula: C17H10O4) is a non-fluorescent reagent that reacts with primary amines under mild conditions to yield highly fluorescent compounds. With a molecular weight of 278.26 g/mol, it is particularly useful for the sensitive fluorometric assay of amino acids, peptides, and proteins. Its ability to effectively block newly generated amino termini also makes it valuable in protein sequencing analyses.
- IUPAC
- 4-Phenylspiro-[furan-2(3H),1-phthalan]-3,3′-dione

Amino Acid and Protein Analysis
Fluorescamine is employed for the sensitive fluorometric quantification of amino acids and proteins. It reacts with primary amines to form stable, fluorescent derivatives, enabling low-background detection.
Peptide Quantification
This reagent is effective in the derivatisation of peptides, facilitating their detection and quantification through fluorescence measurements. It is suitable for general protein quantitation assays.
Protein Sequencing
Fluorescamine can be used to block newly generated amino termini during protein sequencing analysis, improving the accuracy and efficiency of the process.
Enzyme Activity Assays
It serves as a valuable tool for the fluorometric assay of proteolytic enzymes, by reacting with the amino groups released during enzymatic activity.
| Molecular weight | 278.26 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C17H10O4 |
| Assay | ≥98% (TLC) |
| Form | powder |
| Colour | off-white to yellow |
| Solubility | acetone: soluble50 mg/mL |
| Application | Non-fluorescent reagent that reacts readily under mild conditions with primary amines in amino acids and peptides to form stable, highly fluorescent compounds.1,2 Low background due to hydrolysis. Useful for the fluorometric assay of amino acids, protein, and proteolytic enzymes.3 Effectively blocks newly generated amino termini in protein sequence analyses. |
| Melting point | 153-157 °C(lit.) |
| Suitability | suitable for fluorescence |
| 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 234 nmλex 390 nm; λem 475 nm in 0.5 M borate pH 8.5 (after derivatization with L-leucine) |
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 Fluorescamine used for?
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Fluorescamine is used as a non-fluorescent reagent that reacts with primary amines in amino acids and peptides to form stable, highly fluorescent compounds. It is useful for the fluorometric assay of amino acids, proteins, proteolytic enzymes, and for blocking amino termini in protein sequence analyses.
What is the CAS number and formula for Fluorescamine?
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The CAS number for Fluorescamine is 38183-12-9, and its empirical formula (Hill notation) is C17H10O4.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Fluorescamine at a PREMIUM quality level, with an assay of ≥98% (TLC). We do not represent this product as USP, BP, EP, or any other pharmacopoeia grade.
What are the safety precautions for handling Fluorescamine?
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Handling Fluorescamine requires appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields and gloves. A type N95 (US) or type P1 (EN143) respirator filter is recommended. The substance is classified with WGK Germany 3, indicating a high hazard to water.
How is Fluorescamine packed and shipped?
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Fluorescamine is available as an off-white to yellow powder. Tech Serve Solutions exports fine chemicals globally, adhering to all necessary shipping and handling regulations.
How can I request a sample or quote for Fluorescamine?
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To request a sample or a quote for Fluorescamine, please contact the Tech Serve Solutions sales team through our website or by phone.
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