This organic dye binds specifically to tyrosine side chains. The binding of the dye to protein shifts the peak absorbance of the dye. Unbound Coomassie Blue absorbs light maximally at a wavelength of 465 nm, while the absorption maximum is at 595 nm when the dye is bound to protein. Phosphoric acid and methanol may be fatal if swallowed or absorbed through the skin. Phosphoric acid is corrosive to the eyes, skin, nose, mouth, and throat and may be fatal if breathed in high concentrations.
Methanol is an acute poison when swallowed or breathed in high concentrations.
Symptoms of methanol poisoning include headache, vomiting, dizziness, weakness, blurred vision. Methanol is extremely corrosive to the eyes. Coomassie blue, phosphoric acid, and methanol are components of the Bradford Reagent. Gloves, protective glasses and lab coats should be worn when working with these compounds. Coomassie blue will also stain clothing.