X-Gal Solution

Description
The β-galactosidase substrate X-Gal (5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl-β-D-galactopyranoside) is a chromogenic stain for β-gal activity, and is commonly used to distinguish between recombinants and nonrecombinants by lacZ α-complementation with appropriate vectors and hosts. X-Gal Solution is provided as a convenient soution with 20 mg/ml concentrate in DMSO, ready for dilution to culture medium or appropriate buffers.

Synonym: 5-Bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl β-D-galactoside, BCIG, X-Gal

Applications:

Blue/white colony screening assay (blue: non-recombinant colonies & white: recombinant colonies).

X-Gal staining of eukaryotic cells for the detection of β-galactosidase reporter gene expression.

Detection of β-galactosidase activity in various immunological and histochemical applications.

Formula: C₁₄H₁₅BrClNO₆

Note
- Petri dish (9 cm diameter): Spread 40 µL on the surface
- Liquid LB agar: Use 2 µL for each 1 mL of liquid LB agar, add just before pouring plates (at about 50°C)
- Transfected eukaryotic cells: use 25 µL (1 mg) for each 1 mL of staining solution

Recommended Storage Condition: Stable up to 6 months when stored and protected from light at 4°C.