Optically-based stimulation of target cells and modifications thereto

摘要

Stimulation of target cells using light, e.g., in vivo or in vitro, is implemented using a variety of methods and devices. One example involves a vector for delivering a light-activated molecule comprising a nucleic acid sequence that codes for light-activated molecule. The light-activated molecule includes a modification to a location near the all-trans retinal Schiff base, e.g., to extends the duration time of the open state. Other aspects and embodiments are directed to systems, methods, kits, compositions of matter and molecules for ion channels or pumps or for controlling currents in a cell (e.g., in in vivo and in vitro environments).

主权项

1. A light-responsive ion channel comprising an amino acid sequence having at least 90% amino acid sequence identity to the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:2, wherein the ion channel exhibits an extended conducting state after exposure to a light pulse, and wherein the ion channel comprises: i) a substitution of a cysteine residue at a position corresponding to amino acid residue 123 (C123) of SEQ ID NO:2 with a serine; and ii) a substitution of an aspartic acid residue at a position corresponding to amino acid residue 151 (D151) of SEQ ID NO:2 with an alanine.