Glowing Genes and their Applications

Have you heard of glowing genes? Sounds very intriguing, right? Glowing genes are identified as a specific class of genes that glow when they produce green fluorescent proteins (GFP). Although this is a natural phenomenon among many species, scientists have discovered many ways to mimic this process to closely monitor various cell processes.

The uses for glowing genes in biotechnology were perhaps one of the best-kept secrets in science until a group of scientists won a Nobel prize for discovering and developing applications for GFPs in 2008. GFPs were first discovered by scientists in proteins of a bioluminescent jellyfish in 1960. However, it took almost three decades to develop them further to be cloned for many useful clinical applications. The applications of GFPs revolutionized molecular biology by inserting the genetic code for GFPs, researchers can now observe cellular processes in action!

Cells are primarily known for making proteins, which determine how we look. Genes contain the instructions for protein assembly. Scientists have now found a way to attach genes with GFPs and induce them into cells. The cell then produces both GFPs and the target proteins together, resulting in the target proteins becoming bioluminescent and glowing green. The bioluminescent characteristics make the target gene expressions viable for monitoring, resulting in breakthrough discoveries on how to monitor bacterial infections, treat cancer cells, and even causing crops to glow to indicate when they are dry. The most efficient GFP application is the transformation of animal lab experiments into more humane practices. By using glowing genes in animals to observe disease processes and progression, animals are no longer sacrificed for the purpose of clinical testing. Another commendable application of GFP is lighting up in the presence of specific chemical warfare agents and landmines, which is crucial in deflecting human threats and environmental destruction.

There are many biomedical and biotechnology applications that have been discovered for glowing genes. GFPs are naturally present in 125 different species. Researchers have discovered that GFPs are also electron donors when activated by light, causing them to redden while reacting with an electron acceptor. The natural function of GFPs are that they are a light-activated electron donor, which is similar to photosynthesis when chlorophyll donates an electron. Scientists are currently researching many reddening effect applications that can be used to monitor oxidation and reduction processes within cells.

Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) found in a jellyfish

Picture Source: Madamescientist.com