[Campbell Biology P.391] The text mentions Green Fluorescent Protein GFP being used as a "re... | Practice Question

The text mentions Green Fluorescent Protein GFP being used as a "reporter gene." What is the primary purpose of using a reporter gene like GFP in molecular biology research?

  • A: To synthesize specific human proteins for medical use, such as insulin.
  • B: To directly catalyze chemical reactions within an organism, like the firefly gene product.
  • C: To indicate whether a gene of interest is being expressed, by producing an easily detectable product.
  • D: To alter the organism's visible traits, demonstrating evolutionary kinship.

Explanation

The text states that GFP is inserted into organisms 'as a reporter gene so researchers can tell if a gene of interest is being expressed.' This means its primary purpose is to provide a visible or detectable signal that correlates with the expression of another gene, allowing scientists to monitor gene activity.