Optogenetics Flashcards
Define optogenetics.
The use of light-based technologies that are genetically targeted to certain cellular groups or proteins.
How is optogenetics most commonly used?
Used to manipulate the excitability of genetically targeted neurons using genetically modified microbial rhodopsins.
What are rhodopsins?
Pigmented light-sensitive membrane proteins.
What is the function of channelrhodopsins?
Conduct cations and depolarise neurons upon illumination.
What is the function of halorhodopsins?
Conduct chloride ions into the cytoplasm upon yellow light illumination.
What are optoXRs?
Rhodopsin-GPCR chimeras.
What is the function of optoXRs?
Respond to green light with activation of the biological functions dictated by the intracellular loops used in the hybrid.
Define rhodopsins.
Functional opsin proteins.
Why is retinal important?
It is an organic cofactor that binds to opsins to produce rhodopsins.
What happens when a rhodopsin absorbs a photon?
Retinal triggers a sequence of conformational changes within the opsin partner, leading to structural rearrangements and protein activity.
