Fluorescein diacetate
Fluorescein diacetate (CAS 596-09-8), a C24H16O7 compound with a molecular weight of 416.38, is a vital biochemical reagent. This yellow powder serves as a non-fluorescent precursor that, upon enzymatic hydrolysis by esterases, liberates highly fluorescent fluorescein. This characteristic makes it invaluable for assessing cell viability and enzyme activity in various biological and cell culture applications. Its reliable performance underscores its utility in research and diagnostic laboratories.
- IUPAC
- 3,6-Diacetoxyfluoran,Di-O-acetylfluorescein
- Synonyms
- 3,6-DiacetoxyfluoranDi-O-acetylfluorescein

Cell Viability Assays
Fluorescein diacetate is widely used to determine cell viability. Live cells with active esterase enzymes hydrolyze the diacetate, producing a green fluorescent signal, while dead cells do not.
Enzyme Activity Measurement
It functions as a substrate for esterases, allowing for the quantitative measurement of their activity in biological samples. This is crucial for understanding cellular metabolic processes.
Protoplast Viability
In plant biotechnology, it is employed to assess the viability of isolated plant protoplasts after isolation and during culture, aiding in optimising experimental conditions.
Histology and Cytology
This compound can be used as a fluorescent stain in histological and cytological studies to visualise cellular structures and enzymatic processes.
| Molecular weight | 416.38 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C24H16O7 |
| Assay | 98% |
| Form | powder |
| Solubility | acetone: soluble25 mg/mL |
| Storage temperature | −20°C |
| Melting point | 200-203 °C(lit.) |
| 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.
| Absorption | extinction/488-494 nm, 0.1 M NaOH ≥86000 |
|---|
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 Fluorescein diacetate used for?
+
Fluorescein diacetate is primarily used to assess cell viability and measure esterase enzyme activity. It acts as a non-fluorescent substrate that becomes fluorescent upon hydrolysis by intracellular esterases, indicating live cells.
What are the CAS number and formula for Fluorescein diacetate?
+
The CAS number for Fluorescein diacetate is 596-09-8, and its empirical formula is C24H16O7.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies Fluorescein diacetate with a purity of 98%. TSS does not represent this product as USP, BP, EP, or any other pharmacopoeia grade unless explicitly stated.
How should Fluorescein diacetate be handled safely?
+
Handle Fluorescein diacetate with appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields and gloves. A type N95 (US) or type P1 (EN143) respirator filter is recommended. Avoid dust formation and ensure adequate ventilation. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet for comprehensive guidance.
How is Fluorescein diacetate packed and exported?
+
Fluorescein diacetate is carefully packed to maintain its integrity during transit and is expertly exported by Tech Serve Solutions to meet global scientific and industrial demands.
How can I request a sample or quote for Fluorescein diacetate?
+
To request a sample or a quotation for Fluorescein diacetate, please contact the Tech Serve Solutions sales team through our 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


