Antifadent Solutions reduce the photo-bleaching, or fading of the fluorescence of dyes used for labeling biological species. The fading of fluorochrome dyes is a particular problem in fluorescence microscopy, such as in immunofluorescence studies. Fluorescent dyes are also used as cell markers, for following the uptake and release of calcium from cells for example, and for characterizing cell surfaces. For work at high magnification, a non-fluorescent immersion oil is available.

PVOH is produced by hydrolysis of poly(vinyl acetate) and most commercial samples of PVOH contain residual (unhydrolyzed) acetate groups. These groups undergo hydrolysis, often accelerated by the added antifadents, during storage and this can cause a change in pH and more usually gelation.This latter process leads to an unpredictable shelf-life. By making up small volumes of PVOH solution containing the required amount of antifadent solution, you have materials of consistent composition and performance as well as making better use of your purchased materials.