Ca2+-regulated photoproteins of luminous marine coelenterates are of interest and a challenge for researchers as a unique bioluminescent system and as a promising analytical instrument for both in vivo and in vitro applications. The proteins are comprehensively studied as to biochemical properties, tertiary structures, bioluminescence mechanism, etc. This knowledge, along with available recombinant proteins serves the basis for development of unique bioluminescent detection systems that are "self-contained", triggerable, fast, highly sensitive, and non-hazardous. In the paper, we focus on the use of photoproteins as reporters in binding assays based on immunological recognition element--bioluminescent immunoassay and hybridization immunoassay, their advantages and prospects.
Keywords: Ca2+-regulated photoprotein; PCR-ELISA; bioluminescence; immunoassay; multiplex assay; re-engineered photoproteins.