BAPTA-JF: Bright and Targetable Ca²⁺ Indicators

Download our Janelia Fluor® Dye Catalog here. 

Overview

BAPTA-JF indicators merge the superior properties of the Janelia Fluor® dyes, the Ca²⁺ sensitivity of BAPTA, and the genetic targeting precision of self-labeling tags like the HaloTag. This next-generation sensor platform delivers high-performance for both cellular and subcellular functional imaging.

Key Features

• High ΔF/F₀ and Quantum Yield: Up to 15-fold ΔF/F₀ and quantum yields as high as 0.75.
• Compatible with HaloTag: Enables genetically defined labeling and precise subcellular imaging.
• Spectral Flexibility: JF₅₄₉ and JF₆₄₆ derivatives offer compatibility with GFP, optogenetics, and deep-tissue imaging setups.
• Far-Red Imaging of the Primary Cilium: First small-molecule red calcium dye to successfully label and detect dynamic calcium fluxes in the primary cilium.

 Spotlight Indicators

• BAPTA-JF₅₄₉: Bright red-shifted indicator for general Ca²⁺ imaging; K_d = 310 nM; ΔF/F₀ = 15; φ_f = 0.75.
• BAPTA-JF₅₄₉-HaloTag ligand: Targetable red-shifted indicator using the HaloTag system; K_d = 290 nM; ΔF/F₀ = 13.8; φ_f = 0.74.
• BAPTA-JF₆₄₆-HaloTag ligand: Far-red, fluorogenic probe ideal for subcellular and deep tissue imaging; K_d = 140 nM; ΔF/F₀ = 5.5; φ_f = 0.55.

Applications

• Neuronal calcium imaging with single action potential resolution
• Ca²⁺ flux measurement in small organelles like the primary cilium
• Live-cell and multiplexed imaging
• Compatible with GFP and optogenetic tools

Reference: J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2019, 141, 13734-13738; https://doi.org/10.1021/jacs.9b06092.

 IP Coverage: US Patents 11,498,932 and 12,157,750

Opportunity: Available for non-exclusive commercial license

Janelia Tech ID: 2019-048