What is the typical excitation wavelength for GFP?

The typical excitation wavelength for GFP is around 488 nm, which is within the blue range of the visible spectrum. This specific wavelength is optimal for exciting the fluorescent properties of GFP, leading to the emission of its characteristic green fluorescence. The excitation at this wavelength aligns with the absorption spectrum of GFP, which exhibits a strong peak around 488 nm.

When excited, GFP absorbs this light and subsequently re-emits it at a longer wavelength, typically around 509 nm, which is perceived as green fluorescence. This property is crucial in various biological applications, such as imaging and tagging proteins in living cells, as it allows researchers to visualize cellular processes effectively. Understanding the excitation wavelength is fundamental in setting up experiments that utilize GFP as a marker or reporter in molecular biology.