metyleenisininen

Metyleenisininen, also known as methylene blue, is a chemical compound with the formula C16H18ClN3. It is a dark green crystalline powder that is soluble in water and alcohol. Historically, it was used as a dye and is still employed in various scientific and medical applications.

In medicine, metyleenisininen has been used to treat conditions such as methemoglobinemia, a blood disorder where hemoglobin is unable to bind oxygen effectively. It acts as an oxidizing agent, helping to convert methemoglobin back to a form that can carry oxygen. It has also been investigated for its potential in treating malaria and certain neurological conditions, though its efficacy and safety for these uses are still under research.

Metyleenisininen is also utilized in laboratory settings as a biological stain. It can be used to visualize cells and microorganisms under a microscope, highlighting cellular structures. In aquaculture, it is sometimes used as an antifungal and antiparasitic agent for fish. Due to its redox properties, it has found applications in electrochemistry and as a photocatalyst in some research contexts. The compound's distinctive blue color makes it easily detectable and useful in tracer studies.