Fluorophore

Definition

A fluorophore is a fluorescent chemical compound that can re-emit light upon light excitation. It is often used as a marker in biological research to detect and quantify molecules such as proteins and nucleic acids.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fluorophores are critical in immunofluorescence techniques for visualizing antigen-antibody complexes.
2. They absorb light at one wavelength (excitation) and emit it at another, longer wavelength (emission).
3. Commonly used fluorophores include fluorescein, rhodamine, and phycoerythrin.
4. The choice of fluorophore depends on its spectral properties, stability, and the experimental requirements.
5. Fluorophores can be conjugated directly to antibodies or secondary reagents to facilitate detection.

Review Questions

Related terms

Immunofluorescence:

A technique that uses fluorophore-labeled antibodies to detect specific antigens in cells or tissues.

Antigen-Antibody Complex:

A molecular complex formed from the binding of an antibody to an antigen.

Excitation Wavelength: The specific wavelength of light absorbed by a fluorophore to become excited.