Research Progresses and Applications of Fluorescent Protein Antibodies: A Review Focusing on Nanobodies

Since the discovery of fluorescent proteins (FPs), their rich fluorescence spectra and photochemical properties have promoted widespread biological research applications. FPs can be classified into green fluorescent protein (GFP) and its derivates, red fluorescent protein (RFP) and its derivates, and near-infrared FPs. With the continuous development of FPs, antibodies targeting FPs have emerged. The antibody, a class of immunoglobulin, is the main component of humoral immunity that explicitly recognizes and binds antigens. Monoclonal antibody, originating from a single B cell, has been widely applied in immunoassay, in vitro diagnostics, and drug development. The nanobody is a new type of antibody entirely composed of the variable domain of a heavy-chain antibody. Compared with conventional antibodies, these small and stable nanobodies can be expressed and functional in living cells. In addition, they can easily access grooves, seams, or hidden antigenic epitopes on the surface of the target. This review provides an overview of various FPs, the research progress of their antibodies, particularly nanobodies, and advanced applications of nanobodies targeting FPs. This review will be helpful for further research on nanobodies targeting FPs, making FPs more valuable in biological research.

Automated summary

Since the discovery of fluorescent proteins, their unique properties have been widely used in biological research. Antibodies targeting these proteins, including nanobodies, have emerged and shown great potential. Nanobodies are a new type of antibody that are small, stable, and functional in living cells, and they can easily access hidden antigenic epitopes on the target surface. This review provides an overview of various fluorescent proteins, their antibodies, especially nanobodies, and advanced applications of nanobodies targeting fluorescent proteins. It is a valuable resource for further research in this field and enhances the value of fluorescent proteins in biological research.