What is Fluorophore?
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Fluorophore
A fluorophore is a fluorescent chemical compound that can re-emit light upon light excitation. Fluorophores typically absorb light at a specific wavelength and emit light at a longer wavelength, a phenomenon known as fluorescence. This property makes them invaluable tools in various fields of science and technology, particularly in molecular biology, chemistry, and optical engineering.
Applications
- Biological imaging and microscopy
- Flow cytometry
- Fluorescence spectroscopy
- Fluorescent tagging in molecular biology
Mechanism of Action
Fluorophores absorb photons, leading to an excited electronic state. This state is unstable, and the fluorophore returns to its ground state by emitting a photon, resulting in fluorescence. The difference in energy between the absorbed and emitted light is termed as the Stokes shift.
Types of Fluorophores
- Organic dyes
- Quantum dots
- Phycobiliproteins
- Autofluorescent proteins (e.g., GFP)
Selection Criteria for Fluorophores
Choosing the right fluorophore depends on several factors, including its absorption and emission spectra, brightness, photostability, and compatibility with the detection system.
Common Fluorophores
| Fluorophore | Absorption Max (nm) | Emission Max (nm) |
|---|---|---|
| Fluorescein | 494 | 521 |
| Rhodamine | 555 | 580 |
| GFP | 488 | 507 |
In summary, fluorophores are essential tools in scientific research, offering a versatile means for studying biological processes, chemical reactions, and material properties through fluorescence. Their ability to emit light at different wavelengths upon excitation makes them invaluable in a wide range of applications, from medical diagnostics to environmental monitoring.