Strategies for improving red fluorescent proteins.

• Main Author: Muntiyarso, Roswitha.
• Other Authors: School of Biological Sciences
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2012
• Subjects: DRNTU::Science::Biological sciences::Molecular biology
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/49397
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Fluorescent proteins (FPs) have become important tools for biomedical research. There are many FPs available for various applications with their pros and cons but none of them are ideal for universal usage. Lack of reliable FPs in red spectral region made it necessary to find brighter RFP with better characteristics. Here, we summarize and propose strategies to develop an RFP locally. Two methods are proposed to improve RFP, improving existed FPs and find novel RFPs. In first strategy, FP is mutagenized and fused to GFP as a library. This method allows quantitative fluorescent detection by FACS or camera with normalization. Methods for find novel RFPs are also being reviewed. Several fluorescent-producing local coral species are listed to assist more research in discovery of novel protein in Singapore. This study proposes new approach in improving fluorescent protein in red spectral region. Several alternatives methods have also been given to cater any interest in FPs studies and further research.