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Multi-characteristic Opsin (MCO)
- Target
- MCO
- Molecular classification
- Opsin, G protein-coupled receptor, Light-gated ion channel, Synthetic photoreceptor
01
Overview
Multi-characteristic opsins (MCOs) are engineered light-sensitive proteins used in optogenetic therapies, particularly for vision restoration. They function as light-gated ion channels or pumps, exhibiting high photosensitivity and broad spectral range, enabling activation by ambient light. MCOs, delivered via gene therapy, target retinal cells to restore light sensitivity in retinal degenerative diseases. A prominent example is MCO-010, which targets bipolar cells.
- Other names
- MCO-010MCO1bMCOII
02
Mechanism of action
Light-induced activation of the opsin leading to ion flux and neuronal depolarization/hyperpolarization, restoring light sensitivity to retinal cells.
03
Biological functions
Light-gated ion transportNeuronal depolarization/hyperpolarizationSignal transductionVision restoration
04
Disease associations
Retinitis pigmentosaRetinal degenerationVision impairment
05
Safety considerations
Potential immunogenicityOff-target effects in non-retinal cellsLong-term stability and expression of the transgene
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