Optical switches for remote and noninvasive control of cell signaling

Science. 2008 Oct 17;322(5900):395-9. doi: 10.1126/science.1166022.

Abstract

Although the identity and interactions of signaling proteins have been studied in great detail, the complexity of signaling networks cannot be fully understood without elucidating the timing and location of activity of individual proteins. To do this, one needs a means for detecting and controlling specific signaling events. An attractive approach is to use light, both to report on and control signaling proteins in cells, because light can probe cells in real time with minimal damage. Although optical detection of signaling events has been successful for some time, the development of the means for optical control has accelerated only recently. Of particular interest is the development of chemically engineered proteins that are directly sensitive to light.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Azo Compounds / chemistry
  • Azo Compounds / metabolism
  • Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / chemistry
  • Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / metabolism*
  • Isomerism
  • Ligands
  • Light*
  • Potassium Channels / chemistry
  • Potassium Channels / metabolism
  • Proteins / chemistry
  • Proteins / metabolism*
  • Receptors, Cholinergic / chemistry
  • Receptors, Cholinergic / metabolism
  • Receptors, Glutamate / chemistry
  • Receptors, Glutamate / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction*

Substances

  • Azo Compounds
  • Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins
  • Ligands
  • Potassium Channels
  • Proteins
  • Receptors, Cholinergic
  • Receptors, Glutamate
  • azobenzene