A probe is a known, labeled single-stranded nucleic acid — DNA, RNA, or a synthetic oligonucleotide — that binds specifically to its complementary target sequence within a sample, allowing that target to be identified, located, or quantified. The same principle extends beyond nucleic acids to labeled antibodies, peptides, and other biomolecules used to detect or visualize a specific target of interest.
Historically, biomolecule labeling - e.g. for DNA, RNA, or proteins - relied mainly on radioisotopes. In recent years, however, non-radioactive labeling has become a superior alternative. Significant advances in detection technology, including improvements in speed, sensitivity, and versatility, now make non-radioactive labels such as fluorescent dyes and haptens comparable in analytical performance to their radioactive counterparts. They also offer clear practical advantages, including enhanced stability, easier handling, and a much-improved safety profile.
Our portfolio provides the tools needed to prepare non-radioactively labeled biomolecules, whether for use as detection molecules or to directly visualize the labeled biomolecules themselves.
