It is a substrate for beta-galactosidase, which cleaves the glycosidic bond to give 5-bromo-4-chloro-3-hydroxy-1H-indole, which immediately dimerises to give an intensely blue product. It is also used to detect activity of this enzyme in histochemistry and bacteriology. It is employed as a colorless, endogenous or exogenous pigment precursors that may be transformed by biological mechanisms into colored compounds. They are used in biochemical assays and in diagnosis as indicators, particularly in the form of enzyme substrates. X-Gal is the substrate of choice for blue-white selection of recombinant bacterial colonies with the lac+ genotype.
This Thermo Scientific Chemicals brand product was originally part of the Alfa Aesar product portfolio. Some documentation and label information may refer to the legacy brand. The original Alfa Aesar product / item code or SKU reference has not changed as a part of the brand transition to Thermo Scientific Chemicals.
ApplicationsIt is a substrate for beta-galactosidase, which cleaves the glycosidic bond to give 5-bromo-4-chloro-3-hydroxy-1H-indole, which immediately dimerises to give an intensely blue product. It is also used to detect activity of this enzyme in histochemistry and bacteriology. It is employed as a colorless, endogenous or exogenous pigment precursors that may be transformed by biological mechanisms into colored compounds. They are used in biochemical assays and in diagnosis as indicators, particularly in the form of enzyme substrates. X-Gal is the substrate of choice for blue-white selection of recombinant bacterial colonies with the lac+ genotype.
SolubilitySoluble in 100 mM in DMSO.
NotesMoisture & Light sensitive. Store away from oxidizing agents, heat, water/moisture and light. Store under inert gas. Keep the container tightly closed and place it in a cool, dry and well ventilated condition.