Cy2 conjugates exhibit maximum excitation at 492 nm and emission at 510 nm, similar to FITC but with enhanced photostability and reduced pH sensitivity . Key comparisons with other green fluorophores:
| Property | Cy2 | FITC | Alexa Fluor® 488 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Excitation Peak (nm) | 492 | 495 | 495 |
| Emission Peak (nm) | 510 | 520 | 519 |
| Photostability | Moderate | Low | High |
| pH Sensitivity | Low | High | Low |
| Mounting Media | Plastic | Aqueous | Aqueous |
Dilution Range: 1:50 – 1:200 for most applications, depending on antigen density and permeability .
Cross-Reactivity: Minimal cross-reactivity with human, bovine, horse, mouse, and rabbit serum proteins ensures specificity in multiplex assays .
Comparative Performance:
Cy2-conjugated antibodies are labeled for in vitro research use only and are not approved for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes .
A systematic evaluation of functional groups on antibody-fluorophore conjugates highlighted Cy2’s utility in targeted imaging :