Use of biological photo-receptors as direct light-controlled ion channels

摘要

Use of a biological photoreceptor as direct light-controlled ion channel for changing the ionic conductivity of a membrane with the aid of light, is claimed, where: the photoreceptor comprises an apoprotein and a light-sensitive polyene, which is covalently linked to the apoprotein, interacts with the apoprotein, and functions as light-sensitive gate; the apoprotein is an ion channel forming opsin or its derivative or fragment; and a cell death is induced or evoked through exposing by changing the ion conductivity of the membrane. ACTIVITY : None given. MECHANISM OF ACTION : None given.