Gosset Molecular Classification
Light-gated ion channel, Retinylidene protein, Rhodopsin
Disease Roles
Channelrhodopsin-2 Overview
Channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) is a light-gated cation channel derived from the green alga *Chlamydomonas reinhardtii*. Upon activation by blue light (~480 nm), it opens to allow passage of cations such as Na+, K+, and Ca²⁺, leading to cellular depolarization. It is a widely used optogenetic tool for controlling neuronal activity with high temporal precision. Variants have been engineered with altered kinetics and spectral properties. ChR2 has a seven-transmembrane structure and binds all-trans-retinal as a chromophore.
Mechanism of Action
N/A - Used as a research tool, not typically directly targeted by drugs.
Biological Functions
Phototaxis
Photoperception
Ion channel activity
Light-activated depolarization
Disease Associations
Optogenetic tool for studying neurological disorders
Potential therapeutic target in neurological disorders
Safety Considerations
- Potential for off-target effects in optogenetic applications
- Immunogenicity concerns in gene therapy applications
- Phototoxicity from excessive light exposure
- Expression level control to avoid excessive depolarization