Provided is a modified J-aggregate (MJ). In some embodiments, the MJ is nanoscale, sub-micronscale, or microscale. Also provided is an MJ conjugate. Also provided are processes for making an MJ or an MJ conjugate. Photoacoustic imaging methods employing the MJ or MJ conjugate are also provided.

Provided is a modified J-aggregate (MJ). In some embodiments, the MJ is nanoscale, sub-micronscale, or microscale. Also provided is an MJ conjugate. Also provided are processes for making an MJ or an MJ conjugate. Photoacoustic imaging methods employing the MJ or MJ conjugate are also provided.

The present invention relates to novel fluorophores and their use in combination with novel nucleic acid molecules, called aptamers, that bind specifically to the fluorophore and thereby enhance the fluorescence signal of the fluorophore upon exposure to radiation of suitable wavelength. Molecular complexes formed between the novel fluorophores, novel nucleic acid molecules, and their target molecules are described, and the use of multivalent aptamer constructs as fluorescent sensors for target molecules of interest are also described.

The present invention relates to novel fluorophores and their use in combination with novel nucleic acid molecules, called aptamers, that bind specifically to the fluorophore and thereby enhance the fluorescence signal of the fluorophore upon exposure to radiation of suitable wavelength. Molecular complexes formed between the novel fluorophores, novel nucleic acid molecules, and their target molecules are described, and the use of multivalent aptamer constructs as fluorescent sensors for target molecules of interest are also described.

The present invention relates to a new photo-initiating composition for red and near infrared-induced photopolymerization, method of using same in photopolymerization reactions and polymers obtained by such method.

A fluorescent dye, a preparation method and uses thereof, wherein the fluorescent dye has the advantages of sensitivity and specificity to viscosity response, low background fluorescence and the like, and can also be used as a fluorescence activated and lightened-up probe for fluorescence labeling, quantification or detection of proteins, enzymes or nucleic acids.

Water-soluble dipyrromethene-based dyes are provided herein. In certain cases, the water-soluble dye is a dipyrromethene-boron dye. Embodiments of the subject water-soluble dipyrromethene-based dyes have a narrow absorption maxima in the yellow green range close to or at the 561 nm laser line, and are suitable for use in tandem dye systems. Embodiments of the subject dyes efficiently transfer energy to an acceptor chromophore while a second dipyrromethene-based dye of the same or different chemical structure is within energy-receiving proximity therewith. Also provided herein are tandem dyes that include the subject water-soluble dipyrromethene-based dyes, e.g., as donor chromophores. Methods of evaluating a sample for the presence of a target analyte and methods of labelling a target molecule in which the subject dyes find use are also provided. Systems and kits for practicing the subject methods are also provided.

Methods are provided for nucleic acid analysis wherein a target nucleic acid that is at least partially double stranded is mixed with a dsDNA binding dye having a percent saturation of at least 50% to form a mixture. In one embodiment, the nucleic acid is amplified in the presence of the dsDNA binding dye, and in another embodiment a melting curve is generated for the target nucleic acid by measuring fluorescence from the dsDNA binding dye as the mixture is heated. Dyes for use in nucleic acid analysis and methods for making dyes are also provided.

Methods are provided for nucleic acid analysis wherein a target nucleic acid that is at least partially double stranded is mixed with a dsDNA binding dye having a percent saturation of at least 50% to form a mixture. In one embodiment, the nucleic acid is amplified in the presence of the dsDNA binding dye, and in another embodiment a melting curve is generated for the target nucleic acid by measuring fluorescence from the dsDNA binding dye as the mixture is heated. Dyes for use in nucleic acid analysis and methods for making dyes are also provided.

Near infrared and shortwave infrared dyes can have polymethine structures.