7Live-cell imaging has provided the life sciences with insights into the cell biology and 8 dynamics. Fluorescent labeling of target molecules proves to be indispensable in this regard. In 9 this review, we focus on the current fluorescent labeling strategies for nucleic acids, and in 10 particular messenger RNA (mRNA) and plasmid DNA (pDNA), which are of interest to a broad 11 range of scientific fields. By giving a background of the available techniques and an evaluation 12 of the pros and cons, we try to supply scientists with all the information needed to come to an 13 informed choice of nucleic acid labeling strategy aimed at their particular needs. 14