What property of GFP is most useful for live cell imaging?

The property of GFP that is most useful for live cell imaging is its intrinsic fluorescence. This characteristic allows GFP to emit light at specific wavelengths when exposed to certain light conditions. In live cell imaging, researchers can introduce GFP to cells to visualize cellular components, processes, or structures in real time. The ability to observe fluorescence non-invasively enables scientists to track biological events dynamically and accurately without disrupting the cells' natural state.

The intrinsic fluorescence is a key advantage, as it allows for continuous monitoring of living organisms or cells over time, providing insights into cellular functions, interactions, and dynamics in a natural environment. This feature is crucial for understanding complex biological processes in various research fields, including developmental biology and neuroscience.