How do you dissolve calcein and calcein AM?

Calcein is soluble in DMSO, DMF or pH > 6 aqueous solution. A stock solution can be made by dissolving the calcein in the solvent of choice. For example, calcein is soluble in 1M sodium hydroxide at a concentration of approximately 50mg/mL, and a stock solution of approximately 10mg/mL can be prepared in anhydrous DMSO.

Calcein AM, in contrast, is susceptible to hydrolysis. Therefore, it should be dissolved in organic solvents like DMSO with a concentration of approximately 10 mg/mL.

Further dilutions of the stock solution into aqueous buffer should be made prior to performing biological experiments. If organic solvent is used, ensure that the residue amount of organic solvent is insignificant, otherwise it may have physiological side effects. Besides, stock solutions should be prepared immediately before use and should be used within 12 hours, preferable within 3 to 4 hours.