DiOC6(3): a useful dye for staining the endoplasmic reticulum.

The present review discusses the fluorescent organelle probe, DiOC6(3), with reference to its structure, chemistry, availability, spectral properties, labeling procedures, vital staining characteristics, and major applications in cellular and molecular biology. The specificity of dye for endoplasmic reticulum is summarized. We examine the simplicity and advantages of the fluorescent dye system for evaluating structure and function of endoplasmic reticulum. Other significant uses of the dye are also discussed.