What is the Difference Between Phycocyanin and Allophycocyanin?

Phycocyanin and allophycocyanin are both water-soluble proteins found in cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, and are part of the phycobiliprotein family. The key difference between phycocyanin and allophycocyanin lies in their absorption and emission wavelengths:

• Phycocyanin: This protein absorbs orange and red light, particularly near 620 nm, and emits fluorescence at about 650 nm. Phycocyanin is used in the food and beverage industry as a natural coloring agent and is also employed in immunoassay kits.
• Allophycocyanin: This protein absorbs and emits at longer wavelengths than phycocyanin C or phycocyanin R. Allophycocyanin is commonly used in immunoassays, such as flow cytometry and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS).

Both phycocyanin and allophycocyanin have fluorescent properties that are utilized in various applications, including immunoassays, water sample monitoring, and as natural coloring agents in food and beverage products.

Comparative Table: Phycocyanin vs Allophycocyanin

Phycocyanin and allophycocyanin are both phycobiliproteins found in cyanobacteria and red algae, playing a crucial role in light harvesting and energy transfer. Here is a table highlighting the differences between phycocyanin and allophycocyanin:

Both phycocyanin and allophycocyanin are water-soluble proteins that belong to the phycobiliprotein family, which is responsible for light harvesting and energy transfer in cyanobacteria and red algae.