JC-1 (5,5',6,6'-Tetrachloro-1,1',3,3'-tetraethylbenzimidazolylcarbocyanine chloride) is a live cell membrane potential-dependent mitochondrial dye. A ratiometric dye, JC-1 monomers (green fluorescence, Em = 527 nm) are in equilibrium with so-called J-aggregates (red fluorescence, Em = 590nm) that are favored at higher dye concentrations or higher mitochondrial membrane potential. The green/red fluorescence ratio can therefore be used as a measure of mitochondrial membrane potential. JC-1 is particularly useful for apoptosis studies. In apoptotic cells, the dye stays in the cytoplasm and fluoresces green. It is also used in high-throughput drug screening applications. JC-1, iodide is the original salt form of the dye. JC-1, chloride is preferable for applications where the iodide ion is not desired, while also being potentially more water soluble.Properties: e (MeOH) = 190,000; Red solid soluble in DMSO; Store at 4°C; Protect from light, especially in solution; C25H27Cl5N4; MW: 561.5