I'm currently exploring esterase detection methods and have been using 5-bromo-4-chloroindoxyl acetate (BCDA) as a substrate recently. I'm curious about the underlying principle—could someone kindly explain how BCDA enables the detection of esterase activity in a straightforward way? No need for overly complex technical details; a clear basic explanation would be much appreciated!
Hi Binbin, BCDA is a chromogenic substrate commonly used to detect esterase activity. In the presence of esterase, BCDA is hydrolyzed, and this reaction releases a product called BCI (5-bromo-4-chloroindoxyl), which then undergoes oxidation to form a visible blue precipitate. This color change allows you to visually detect and localize esterase activity, especially in histological or cell-based assays.
The answer to this question comes from MedChemExpress Technical Support.
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