What is the primary application of GFP in molecular biology?

The primary application of Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) in molecular biology is to tag proteins and visualize them in cells. This capability is rooted in GFP's unique property of fluorescent emission when exposed to specific wavelengths of light. Researchers utilize GFP as a molecular marker by fusing it genetically to proteins of interest, enabling the tracking of these proteins in live cells or tissue. This assists in studying protein localization, dynamics, and interactions within the cellular environment, providing vital insights into cellular processes and mechanisms.

Using GFP as a marker dramatically enhances the visualization of cellular activity without disrupting biological functions, thus making it an invaluable tool in various scientific fields, including cell biology, genetics, and biotechnology. The ability to visualize proteins in real time helps scientists understand their roles during processes such as cell division, signaling pathways, and disease progression.