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Updated: May 27, 2026
13:14
Genetic Barcoding with Fluorescent Proteins for Multiplexed Applications
Published on: April 14, 2015
A novel genetically encoded fluorescent protein as a Cu(I) indicator
1Chemistry College, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China. yanxi@bnu.edu.cn
Dalton Transactions (Cambridge, England : 2003)
|December 1, 2011
Summary
Researchers developed a new fluorescent sensor for copper(I) ions using a protein from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This novel sensor, PMtb, demonstrates high sensitivity and selectivity for detecting copper(I).
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Copper(I) is an essential trace element crucial for various biological processes.
- Dysregulation of copper homeostasis is implicated in several diseases.
- Development of selective and sensitive copper(I) biosensors is vital for research and diagnostics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To engineer a genetically encoded fluorescent protein sensor for copper(I).
- To assess the sensitivity and selectivity of the novel sensor towards copper(I).
Main Methods:
- Constructed a fusion protein (PMtb) incorporating the copper(I)-binding domain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis CDC 1551 (residues 1-162) between cyan fluorescent protein (CFP) and yellow fluorescent protein (YFP).
- Evaluated the fluorescent response of PMtb to varying concentrations of copper(I).
Main Results:
- The genetically encoded fluorescent protein sensor (PMtb) was successfully constructed.
- PMtb exhibited high sensitivity in detecting copper(I) ions.
- The sensor demonstrated significant selectivity for copper(I) over other metal ions.
Conclusions:
- The developed PMtb protein serves as a highly sensitive and selective fluorescent biosensor for copper(I).
- This tool has potential applications in biological research and understanding copper-related cellular functions.
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