Rphycoerythrine

Rphycoerythrine is a protein pigment found in cyanobacteria, red algae, and some other organisms. It belongs to the phycobiliprotein family, which are light-harvesting pigments. Rphycoerythrine absorbs light in the green to yellow range of the spectrum and emits light in the orange to red range. This fluorescence allows it to efficiently transfer energy to other pigments, playing a crucial role in photosynthesis.

The structure of Rphycoerythrine consists of a protein scaffold and covalently bound chromophores, which are the light-absorbing molecules. These chromophores are typically linear tetrapyrroles. The specific arrangement and number of chromophores, along with the protein subunits, determine the exact absorption and emission spectra of different types of Rphycoerythrine.

Due to its strong fluorescence and distinct spectral properties, Rphycoerythrine has found applications in various scientific fields. It is widely used as a fluorescent label in biological research, particularly in flow cytometry and immunofluorescence microscopy, for identifying and quantifying cells or molecules. Its ability to absorb light in a spectral region where many biological tissues have low autofluorescence makes it a valuable tool for deep-tissue imaging. Researchers also investigate its potential as a natural food colorant and antioxidant.