Molecules to be labeled with Texas Red Maleimide require free thiol groups. In the case of proteins, Texas Red Maleimide will react with exposed cysteine residues. Alternatively, free thiols may be generated by reducing disulfide bonds or by modifying other reactive groups such as primary amines with compounds like Traut's reagent (2-iminothiolane).

For labeling nucleic acids, thiols can be introduced into DNA, RNA, or oligonucleotides using the 5' EndTag™ or 3' EndTag™ nucleic acid labeling systems.

This fluorescent label is a high quantum yield rhodamine derivative that can be directly visualized. The label can also be detected, and the signal amplified, using our affinity-purified antibody conjugates to rhodamine. (Excitation maximum at 595 nm; emission maximum at 615 nm).