Energy transfer between two fluorophores reports on molecular distances and interactions.
Efficiency depends on the 6th power of distance (works at 1 to 10 nm) and spectral overlap. Used for protein interactions, conformational changes and biosensors.
FRET changes can signal binding or conformational shifts. Measurements need controls for bleed-through. FLIM-FRET measures lifetime.
Remember: FRET only occurs when molecules are within about 10 nm.
Energy transfer between two fluorophores reports on molecular distances and interactions.
FRET is one of the 51 topics in Lab Methods & Biostatistics. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Flow Cytometry, Fluorescent Proteins, NMR in Biology.
CFP-YFP FRET detects calcium binding to calmodulin.
Work through the Beginner topics in Lab Methods & Biostatistics first, such as Scientific Method, Hypothesis, Variables, then return to FRET. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
The closest topics to FRET are Flow Cytometry, Fluorescent Proteins, NMR in Biology, ELISA. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for FRET. To practise the whole of Lab Methods & Biostatistics, use the Lab Methods & Biostatistics quiz.
FRET: Energy transfer between two fluorophores reports on molecular distances and interactions. Flow Cytometry: Cells pass through a laser one at a time and are counted and characterised by fluorescent markers. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Flow Cytometry and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Lab Methods & Biostatistics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.
Cells pass through a laser one at a time and are counted and characterised by fluorescent markers.
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