Chemical Properties
Purple/maroon crystalline powder
Definition
ChEBI: Ethidium bromide is the organic bromide salt of ethidium. It has a role as a trypanocidal drug, a geroprotector and an intercalator. It contains an ethidium.
Health Hazard
Acute toxic effects from exposure to ethidium bromide have not been thoroughly
investigated. Ethidium bromide is irritating to the eyes, skin, mucous membranes,
and upper respiratory tract.
Although there is no evidence for the carcinogenicity or teratogenicity of this
substance in humans, ethidium bromide is strongly mutagenic and therefore should
be regarded as a possible carcinogen and reproductive toxin
Flammability and Explosibility
Ethidium bromide does not pose a flammability hazard (NFPA rating = 1).
Biochem/physiol Actions
Ethidium bromide intercalates double-stranded DNA and RNA and acts as a frameshift mutagen. It can also be used in conjunction with acridine orange to differentiate between viable, apoptotic and necrotic cells.
storage
Because of its mutagenicity, stock solutions of this compound should be prepared in a fume hood, and protective gloves should be worn at all times while handling this substance. Operations capable of generating ethidium bromide dust or aerosols of ethidium bromide solutions should be conducted in a fume hood to prevent exposure by inhalation.
Purification Methods
Crystallise it from MeOH or EtOH [Lamos et al. J Am Chem Soc 108 4278 1986]. Its solubility in H2O is 1%. [Beilstein 22/11 V 352.] POSSIBLE CARCINOGEN.
Incompatibilities
No incompatibilities are known.
Waste Disposal
Excess ethidium bromide and waste material containing this substance should be placed in an appropriate container, clearly labeled, and handled according to your institution's waste disposal guidelines.
