Chapter 16, Problem 1P

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using GFP versus lacZ as a reporter gene in mice, C. elegans, and Drosopholia?

Summary Introduction

To analyze:

Describe the advantages and disadvantages of using GFP versus lacZ as a reporter gene in mice, C. elegans, and Drosophila.

Introduction:

A gene which is involved to a regulatory arrangement of another gene of courtesy in studying cell culture, animals, plants, or bacteria is known as a reporter gene. These genes are used as an indication of whether a certain gene has been retained or stated by a cell in a population of cells. Commonly used reporter genes include GFP, GUS, lacZ, etc.

Explanation of Solution

LacZ gene from E. coli is used as a reporter gene. But to observe its activity and give accurate results, the cell under study must take up X-gal from the medium, and it is a lengthy process with uncertainty of results. Therefore, many researchers now use GFP as a reporter gene.

Green fluorescent protein (GFP) is one of the fluorescent reporters used for screening of genetic expression in organisms like mice, C. elegans, and Drosophila. Genes encoding GFP are obtained from the jellyfish – Aequorid victoria.

Advantages of using GFP versus lacZ include the following:

Screening of living transgenic cells or organisms can be easily performed by just observing luminescent cells in a population.

Fusion of gene of interest with GFP gene does not affect its luminescent property. Therefore, results are accurate.

Disadvantages of using GFP versus lacZ include the following:

Size of GFP is larger. It may affect the function of protein of interest. This does not occur when lacZ is used as a reporter gene.

Conclusion

Advantages and disadvantages of using GFP versus lacZ as a reporter gene in mice, C. elegans, and Drosophila are described above, Green fluorescent protein (GFP) is one of the fluorescent reporters used for screening of genetic expression whereas lac Z activity and accuracy determination is an lengthy process.