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Fluorescent Peptides Labeling

Peptides Labeling

Scientists usually use model cell systems for the simulation of pathological and physiological processes to understand the mechanisms that lead to the formation and progression of diseases.

Fluorescent Peptides Labeling

Scientist usually use model cell systems for the simulation of pathological and physiological processes to understand the mechanisms that lead to the formation and progression of diseases. Cells by their inherent nature are very complex and detailed, though the cell systems used by scientists are fairly invaluable tools for research purposes.

The use of platforms such as fluorescence energy transfer (fret) as well as fluorescent peptide labelling have made it possible for researchers to make good progress in their studies of the cell. Additionally, it has led to the development of a plethora of cutting-edge applications relevant to the medical field.

Fluorophores are known to absorb the visible range of light then remit part of the energy it absorbed as the fluorescence. The energy radiated normally has a longer wavelength compared to the excitation light. Additionally, the emitted wavelength has no dependence on the excitation light wavelength.

It is possible to bind fluorescent labels covalently to the A-terminus of the peptides during the solid phase of the peptide synthesis. It is also possible to link it to a specific site in already existing amino acid. The thiol or the amino group present in the side chains of the amino acids can then be conveniently used to do the labelling, but only if it will not have any negative consequences in the biological functions of the peptide.

For biotinylated peptides, their labelling can be done in-situ with the use of fluorescent streptavidin. It is not normally easy to do the C-terminal labelling, however the feasibility of doing so should always be done in advance.

When these features are used correctly, it becomes possible to fluorescently label peptides which can then be used as reporters when conducting imaging studies. The labelling can also be used in studies involving cellular enzyme assay like protease monitoring activities.

Carlos Nimmy
Carlos Nimmy
I'm Carlos Nimmy, the founder of this site. I cover health and fitness, personal development, and entrepreneurship on this site.