Lysotracker Red Protocol
- Lysotracker dyes are weakly basic and therefore concentrate in cellular organelles that are acidic. A fluorescent microscope is required to see these dyes. Lysotracker red absorbs light at wavelength 577 nanometers (nm) and emits a red fluorescence at wavelength 590 nm. These dyes are often used in conjunction with other fluorescent markers such as Hoechst, which is fluorescent blue and specific for the nucleus.
- Lysosomes are organelles within the cell that have acidic enzymes for breaking down cellular debris. These acidic enzymes attract the lysotracker dyes enabling scientists to identify the lysosomes and track metabolites within the cells.
- Lysotracker red can be used with suspension or adherent cell cultures. Dilute the dye in cell growth medium and place it on the cells --- the exposure time is dependent on cell type. Remove the dye, replace with fresh growth medium and look at the cells with a fluorescent microscope. The cells can be re-dyed if necessary.