G6Pasen

G6Pasen is a strain of the common bacterium Escherichia coli that has been genetically modified to express a fusion protein. This fusion protein consists of the enzyme beta-glucuronidase (GUS) and a fluorescent protein, typically Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP). The GUS enzyme is commonly used as a reporter gene in molecular biology, allowing researchers to visualize gene expression or monitor cellular processes. When fused with GFP, the resulting G6Pasen can be detected both by its enzymatic activity (which can be measured using specific substrates) and by its fluorescence under appropriate light excitation.

This modified E. coli strain is frequently employed in various research applications. It serves as a valuable tool for studying bacterial physiology, gene regulation, and the effects of environmental factors or genetic manipulations on bacterial behavior. The dual detection capability of G6Pasen, through both enzymatic assays and fluorescence microscopy, offers researchers flexibility and can provide complementary information. For instance, the fluorescence provides a direct visual readout of the protein's location within the cell or population, while the GUS activity can be quantified to assess the level of expression or the efficiency of a particular genetic construct. Its use is primarily confined to laboratory settings for scientific investigation.