UNIT 4.4 Cellular Function Probes

This unit covers many of the fluorescent probes used in cell biology, such as green fluorescent protein, esterase and peptidase substrates, intracellular thiols, lipid probes, and probes for intracellular ions. It brings to light the chemical relationships between certain probes and relates these properties to their functional application. Correct use of these probes requires an understanding of how they are taken up and distributed within the cell and where appropriate, what factors will affect the fluorescence emission from the probe. This is particularly important for probes of pH and calcium flux.