Used primarily in biological research, this chemical is a vital tool for staining DNA in live and fixed cells. Its ability to bind specifically to DNA makes it invaluable for fluorescence microscopy, allowing scientists to visualize and study cellular structures and processes. It is particularly useful in cell cycle analysis, where it helps differentiate between cells in various stages of division. Additionally, it aids in cell sorting techniques, such as flow cytometry, by enabling the identification and isolation of specific cell populations based on their DNA content. Its application extends to studies of apoptosis, where it helps detect changes in nuclear morphology associated with programmed cell death.