Fluorescent Proteins

Fluorescent proteins are genetically encoded chromophores that emit light when excited by specific wavelengths, enabling non-invasive visualization in living systems. Protein engineering has produced variants spanning the visible spectrum from blue (EBFP2) to far-red (mCardinal), each with distinct brightness, photostability, and maturation characteristics.

NameEx (nm)Em (nm)Brightness
EGFP 488 507 High
mCherry 587 610 Moderate
mOrange2 549 565 High
mTagBFP2 399 454 High
tdTomato 554 581 Very High
Venus 515 528 Very High