GFP Meaning and
Definition
-
GFP, short for Green Fluorescent Protein, is a naturally occurring protein derived from the jellyfish species Aequorea victoria. It is widely used as a vital tool in molecular and cell biology research due to its unique property of emitting green fluorescence when exposed to ultraviolet or blue light. The discovery and subsequent utilization of GFP have revolutionized various aspects of scientific research.
GFP acts as a reporter molecule, enabling scientists to monitor and visualize the behavior and location of specific proteins within cells or organisms. By genetically fusing the GFP gene with the gene of interest, researchers are able to track the movement and expression of the target protein. This has allowed for extensive studies on protein dynamics, localization, and interaction within living organisms.
The GFP molecule is composed of 238 amino acids and features a chromophore, the region responsible for the green fluorescence. The mechanism underlying its fluorescence involves the absorption of light energy, resulting in the excitation of the chromophore and subsequent emission of green light. GFP is highly stable and exhibits minimal or no toxicity, making it an ideal candidate for numerous bioimaging techniques and long-term observation studies.
The versatile nature of GFP has led to its applications in fields ranging from molecular biology and genetics to medicine and environmental science. Its usage includes gene expression analysis, protein tagging, tracking of cellular processes, and determining the presence of pathogens or contaminants. GFP's widespread presence in scientific research has facilitated a deeper understanding of biological processes at the molecular level and contributed significantly to advancements in various scientific disciplines.
Common Misspellings for GFP
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
