Hoechst 33342 analog 2 is widely used in biological research for staining DNA in live and fixed cells. It is particularly valuable in fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry due to its ability to bind to the minor groove of double-stranded DNA, emitting strong blue fluorescence upon excitation. This makes it a useful tool for cell cycle analysis, as it can distinguish between different phases based on DNA content. Additionally, it is employed in studies involving cell viability, apoptosis, and nuclear morphology. Its cell-permeant nature allows for staining of live cells without the need for fixation, making it a preferred choice for real-time imaging and dynamic cellular studies.