title: Direct fluorescent labeling of microorganisms as a possible life-detection technique.
abstract: Microorganisms and selected proteinaceous substances were directly tagged with fluorescein isothiocyanate. This approach suggested a possible application for detection of extraterrestrial life. A stable and apparently specific linkage was formed with protein, and nonprotein substances were readily destained. Soil and atmospheric debris did not exhibit any significant affinity for the dye.
mesh_terms: D001426:Bacterial Proteins; D005452:Fluoresceins; D008829:Microbiology; D013194:Staining and Labeling
chemical_list: D001426:Bacterial Proteins; D005452:Fluoresceins