Emission enhancement and application of synthetic green fluorescent protein chromophore analogs

The unique optical properties of genetically encoded green fluorescent protein (GFP) inspire the chemical synthesis, photophysical characterization and application of synthetic GFP chromophore (GFPc) analogs. In this Feature Article, we summarize the recent progress in the fluorescence enhancement and application of synthetic GFPc analogs. In view of fluorescence enhancement, various methods can be classified into physical encapsulation and chemical modification, which can inhibit the chromophores' ultrafast internal conversion. Thus, synthetic GFPc analogs hold great potential as promising candidates in the development of novel sensors or fluorescent probes.