It all started in 1994 with GFP (green fluorescent protein) labeled E. coli and C. elegans (roundworm) cells. Once people realized that you could express the gene for a jellyfish protein in other cells without any other jellyfish-specific factors, it was possible to label any cell green simply by inserting the gene. Biologists realized the endless possiblities soon enough. GFP zebrafish (1997) [.pdf]. GFP mice (1998). GFP Bunny (more art than science, and previously ...) (2000). GFP monkey (2000). Fluorescent green pigs (2006). But nothing combines cuteness and transgentic more than the newly announced RFP (red fluorescent protein) kitty! And not only are they red fluorescent, but they're cloned to boot!
posted by scblackman on Dec 12, 2007 - 42 comments