thionine

Thionine is a cationic phenothiazine-structured small molecule known for its physicochemical properties. It functions as a common biological dye, particularly useful in histology due to its strong affinity for biological membranes. Additionally, thionine serves as a photosensitizer in phototherapy and photodynamic antimicrobial inactivation. Its phenothiazine pharmacophore contributes to its selectivity against microbial and tumor cells. Research indicates its potential therapeutic application in Alzheimer's disease by modulating tau phosphorylation and affecting amyloid precursor protein metabolism. Thionine also acts as a nonlinear inhibitor of human plasma butyrylcholinesterase. Furthermore, it is widely utilized as a redox-active probe or electron mediator in various electrochemical biosensors and immunosensors for the detection of biomarkers and contaminants.

Other names

THThi