Fluorescent labelling in living cells

- Fluorescent labelling of proteins in living cells is a key method in cell biology.
- A variety of specialized probes and conjugation methods exist.
- Labelling methods vary in speed, selectivity, disruptiveness and flexibility.
- Identifying the method of choice for a specific problem is crucial to success.

The labelling of proteins with green fluorescent protein enabled the visualization of proteins in living cells for the first time. Since then, much progress has been made in the field. Modern strategies allow the labelling of proteins in live cells through a range of specialized methods with sophisticated chemical probes that show enhanced photophysical properties compared to fluorescent proteins. This review briefly summarizes recent advances in the field of fluorescent chemical protein labelling inside living cells and illustrates key aspects on the requirements and advantages of each given method.

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