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Updated: Feb 10, 2026

Using Three-color Single-molecule FRET to Study the Correlation of Protein Interactions
Published on: January 30, 2018
An introduction to color-changing systems from the cephalopod protein reflectin
Atrouli Chatterjee1, Brenna Norton-Baker, Laura E Bagge
1Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America.
Abstract:
Cephalopods possess unrivaled camouflage and signaling abilities that are enabled by their sophisticated skin, wherein multiple layers contain chromatophore pigment cells (as part of larger chromatophore organs) and different types of reflective cells called iridocytes and leucophores. The optical functionality of these cells (and thus cephalopod skin) critically relies upon subcellular structures partially composed of unusual structural proteins known as reflectins. Herein, we highlight studies that have investigated reflectins as materials within the context of color-changing coatings. We in turn discuss these proteins' multi-faceted properties, associated challenges, and future potential. Through our presentation of selected case studies, we hope to stimulate additional dialogue and spur further research on photonic technologies based on and inspired by reflectins.
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