Photoprotein

A photoprotein is a specialized protein capable of producing light through a chemical reaction when exposed to certain conditions, like the presence of calcium ions. Found naturally in some bioluminescent organisms, photoproteins contain a light-emitting molecule called a chromophore. When triggered, usually by calcium, the protein undergoes a reaction that causes the chromophore to emit visible light, enabling these organisms to glow. This process is highly efficient and often used in scientific research, such as in bioluminescent assays and imaging, due to its specificity and brightness.