Why is purification important in studying GFP?

Purification is crucial in studying GFP because it allows researchers to isolate the protein from other cellular components. By obtaining a pure sample of GFP, scientists can accurately analyze its properties, behavior, and interactions without interference from other proteins, nucleic acids, or cellular debris. This isolation is critical for assessing the specific functions of GFP, examining its fluorescence characteristics, and applying it in various biological and medical research contexts, such as tracking gene expression or cellular processes.

The other choices do not directly address the fundamental goal of purification. Enhancing fluorescence, changing molecular weight, or modifying the amino acid sequence pertains to different experimental processes and objectives that are not the primary purpose of purification. Instead, the main aim is to achieve a clear understanding of GFP's inherent properties by studying it in a purified form.