Abstract: Water soluble light harvesting multichromophores that have an ultraviolet absorption maximum are provided. In some embodiments, the multichromophores include a conjugated segment including a fused 6-5-6 tricyclic co-monomer and a UV absorbance-modifying co-monomer. The multichromophores may include an acceptor chromophore covalently linked to the multichromophore in energy-receiving proximity therewith. In some embodiments, a specific binding member is covalently linked to the multichromophore. Also provided are methods of evaluating a sample for the presence of a target analyte and methods of labelling a target molecule using compositions including the light harvesting multichromophores. Kits and systems for practicing the subject methods are also provided.

Abstract: Water solvated polymeric dyes and polymeric tandem dyes having a blue excitation spectrum are provided. The polymeric dyes are conjugated polymers that can include a thiophene-containing co-monomer. The polymeric tandem dyes further include a signaling chromophore covalently linked to the conjugated polymer in energy-receiving proximity therewith. Also provided are labelled specific binding members that include the subject polymeric dyes. Methods of evaluating a sample for the presence of a target analyte and methods of labelling a target molecule in which the subject polymeric dyes find use are also provided. Systems and kits for practicing the subject methods are also provided.