Isotope labeling is a technique used to track the passage of isotopes through chemical reactions, metabolic pathways, or biological cells. Reactants are labeled by replacing one or more specific atoms with their isotopes, and measuring the position of isotopes in the products can determine what sequence the isotopic atom followed in the reaction pathway. The nuclides used in isotope labeling can be stable nuclides or radioactive nuclides.
Common radioactive nuclides for isotope labeling include Tritium (3H), Carbon-14 (14C), Phosphorus-32 (32P), Sulfur-35 (35S), and Iodine-131 (131I). They are used in various biological and chemical studies because their radiation can be detected with high sensitivity. Substances are labeled using radioactive isotopes, which are then tracked and analyzed through the detection of their emitted radiation. Thus, the choice of isotopes depends on factors such as their half-life and the type of molecule being labeled. Stable nuclides including deuterium (2H), carbon-13 (13C), nitrogen-15 (15N), and oxygen-18 (18O) are commonly used to label substances. Due to their lack of radiation release, the presence of stable nuclides should be detected using techniques such as mass spectrometry and NMR. In addition, stable isotopes do not interfere with biological functions, allowing for non-invasive, long-term tracking of molecules in living organisms. This makes them ideal for tracing in vivo metabolic pathways, determining substance absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion properties, and for accurately quantifying biomolecules.
Isotope labeling is a key step for improved analytical precision, enhanced drug discovery, and deep insights into biological and environmental processes. Amerigo Scientific provides reliable isotope labeling reagents and easy-to-use kits to meet various research needs.
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