Quantitative
monitoring of gene expression
- Small: only 27 kDa in size.
- Very stable: has an unusual barrel structure encompassing the hexapeptide chromophore.
- Fluorescence properties: absorbs light at 395 and 470nm, emits green fluorescence at 509nm. Now altered spectrum available from mutants.
- Versatile: could be cloned and expressed in almost all organisms, and every major cellular compartment.
- Autofluorescence: no fixation needed, no sacrifice of host, no co-factors needed
- Non-invasive
- Quantifiable: its expression is easily detected, and quantifiable