Photobleaching measurements of diffusion in cell membranes and aqueous cell compartments

This commentary unit discusses in great detail the theoretical nature of fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP). This information is crucial to an understanding of how and why FRAP works in a cell system. Further, understanding how to interpret the data sets requires a sound knowledge of the processes involved. Of primary importance are the nature of membrane diffusion and the nature of the multiple compartments into which fluorescent dyes can enter. The unit provides a complete discussion of all aspects of FRAP from the perspective of cellular measurements.