Gosset Molecular Classification
Retinylidene protein, Light-gated ion channel, Opsin
Other Names
ChR1, ChR2, ACRs, KCRs, VChR1, Channelrhodopsin-1, Channelrhodopsin-2
Disease Roles
Channelrhodopsin Overview
Channelrhodopsins are a subfamily of retinylidene proteins that function as light-gated ion channels. When expressed in cells, channelrhodopsins enable optical control over cellular excitability and physiological processes, making them foundational tools for optogenetics. Upon illumination, they open an ion-conducting pore across the membrane, leading to either depolarization (excitation) or hyperpolarization (inhibition) depending on the ion selectivity of the channel variant.
Mechanism of Action
Light-gated ion channel activation leading to depolarization or hyperpolarization of cells.
Biological Functions
Phototaxis
Light-gated ion conductance
Neuronal excitation
Neuronal inhibition
Disease Associations
Neurological disorders (potential therapeutic target)
Safety Considerations
- Potential off-target effects
- Immunogenicity (in gene therapy approaches)
- Phototoxicity
- Long-term effects of altered neuronal activity