Recent advances using green and red fluorescent protein variants
Annette Müller-Taubenberger1, Kurt I Anderson
1Institut für Zellbiologie (ABI), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Schillerstrasse 42, Munich, Germany. amueller@lrz.uni-muenchen.de
Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology
|August 21, 2007
Summary
Green and red fluorescent proteins offer advanced live-cell imaging capabilities. These improved monomeric red fluorescent proteins (mRFPs) and green fluorescent protein (GFP) variants enable dual-color microscopy and FRET studies.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Cell Biology
- Microscopy
Background:
- Fluorescent proteins are essential for live-cell imaging.
- Green fluorescent protein (GFP) and its variants are widely used.
- Recent advancements include monomeric red fluorescent proteins (mRFPs) with enhanced properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review green and red spectral fluorescent protein variants.
- To discuss their paired use in various imaging applications.
- To highlight recent two-color imaging advancements.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on fluorescent protein development and applications.
- Analysis of properties such as maturation, brightness, and monomeric state.
- Examination of use in live-cell imaging (in vivo, in vitro), FRET, photoswitching, and BiFC.
Main Results:
- Development of monomeric red fluorescent proteins (mRFPs) with improved characteristics.
- Availability of green and red fluorescent proteins with nearly ideal properties for dual-color microscopy.
- Successful application in various advanced imaging techniques.
Conclusions:
- Green and red fluorescent proteins are powerful tools for live-cell imaging.
- Paired use of these proteins enables sophisticated dual-color microscopy and FRET.
- Ongoing advancements continue to enhance their utility in biological research.
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