Biochemistry of the bioluminescence of colonial hydroids and other coelenterates

Abstract

Abstract The biochemical system responsible for the bioluminescent flashing in a number of coelenterates has been isolated and partially characterized. The system involves a molecule termed a “photoprotein,” which emits a brief (1 second) flash of light when reacted with calcium. A chelating agent such as EDTA must be used at all times to maintain the activity intact. The activity of reacted photoprotein is not restored if the calcium is removed by EDTA.