Trypan Blue
Trypan Blue (CAS 72-57-1) is a tetrasulfonated diazo dye with the molecular formula C34H24N6O14S4Na4 and a molecular weight of 960.81 g/mol. This hydrophilic compound functions as a vital stain, typically excluded by healthy living cells, making it invaluable for assessing cell viability in research. Its applications extend to staining collagen and amyloid, and it is used in chlamydospore agar for fungal studies. The dye exhibits red fluorescence when bound to proteins.
- IUPAC
- Direct blue 14
- Synonyms
- Direct blue 14Congo blue BVitastainTrypanblauE 131

Vital Staining for Cell Viability
Trypan Blue is widely used as a vital stain in cell culture. Its inability to penetrate intact cell membranes allows researchers to distinguish between viable cells (which exclude the dye) and non-viable cells (which uptake the dye).
Histology and Collagen Staining
This dye is effective for staining collagen and amyloid structures in histological samples. It aids in the visualisation and analysis of tissue components.
Fungal Chlamydospore Detection
Trypan Blue is employed in chlamydospore agar, a specific medium used for the identification and study of fungi, particularly for the visualisation of chlamydospores.
Protein-Dye Complex Analysis
When Trypan Blue interacts with proteins, the resulting complex emits a red fluorescence, enabling its use in certain analytical techniques for protein detection or characterisation.
| Molecular weight | 960.81 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | C34H24N6O14S4Na4 |
| Form | powder |
| Solubility | H2O: soluble1 mg/mL |
| Concentration | 0.4% |
| Application | Trypan blue is a blue acid dye that contains two azo chromophores. It is a large, hydrophilic, tetrasulfonated dye. Trypan blue has been used as a vital stain as it is excluded by most living cells. It has been used to stain collagen and amyloid. It is also used in chlamydospore agar for fungi. When Trypan blue binds to proteins the resulting complex emits red fluorescence. |
| Suitability | suitable for cell culture |
| Melting point | >300 °C(lit.) |
| Composition | Dye content, 60% |

Hazard statements
- H350May cause cancer
Precautionary statements
- P201Obtain special instructions before use
- P308IF exposed or concerned
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, full-face particle respirator type N100 (US), Gloves, respirator cartridge type N100 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter, type P3 (EN 143) respirator cartridges |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 3077 9 / PGIII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | T |
| Risk statements (R) | 45 |
| Safety statements (S) | 53-45 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Colour Index Number | 23850 |
|---|---|
| Gene Information | human ... PTPN1(5770), PTPRF(5792) |
| Absorption | extinction/603-607 nm, methanol 60000λmax 607 nm |
| Sterility | sterile-filtered |
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 Trypan Blue used for?
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Trypan Blue (CAS 72-57-1) is primarily used as a vital stain to assess cell viability in cell culture, differentiate between living and dead cells, stain collagen and amyloid, and in chlamydospore agar for fungal studies.
What are the CAS number and formula for Trypan Blue?
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The CAS number for Trypan Blue is 72-57-1, and its molecular formula is C34H24N6O14S4Na4.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Trypan Blue with a dye content of 60%. While suitable for cell culture and research applications, TSS does not represent this product as USP, BP, EP, or any other pharmacopoeial grade unless explicitly stated.
What are the main safety concerns when handling Trypan Blue?
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Trypan Blue is classified with GHS08 symbol and signal word 'Danger' due to hazard statement H350 (May cause cancer). Appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields, gloves, and a suitable respirator (N100 US/P3 EN143), is essential. Handle in a well-ventilated area or fume hood.
How is Trypan Blue packed and shipped?
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Trypan Blue is shipped as UN 3077, Class 9, Packing Group III. It is sterile-filtered for applications requiring sterility. Specific packaging details for export can be provided upon request.
How can I request a sample or quote for Trypan Blue?
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To request a sample or a quotation for Trypan Blue, please contact our sales team through the website or via direct enquiry, specifying your requirements and shipping details.
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