Thiochrome

Thiochrome is a fluorescent compound that is a derivative of thiamine, also known as vitamin B1. It is formed when thiamine is oxidized. Thiochrome is notable for its strong blue fluorescence under ultraviolet light, a property that has been utilized in various analytical methods. This fluorescence is significantly enhanced in alkaline solutions.

The measurement of thiochrome fluorescence is a common and sensitive technique for determining the thiamine content in biological samples and food products. When thiamine is present, it can be converted to thiochrome through enzymatic or chemical oxidation. The intensity of the emitted fluorescence is then directly proportional to the amount of thiamine originally present. This method is widely used in nutritional analysis and clinical laboratories to assess thiamine status. The sensitivity of the thiochrome assay makes it a valuable tool for detecting even low levels of thiamine.