Researchers have identified a new light sensitive protein that could expand our understanding of optogenetics. The study focuses on a novel channelrhodopsin discovered in a lake microbiome. These proteins act as light gated ion channels and are widely used to control neuronal activity in optogenetics.
The newly identified protein, HulaCCR1, shows unique structural features. It contains a modified amino acid motif that plays a key role in how the channel responds to light. The study shows that this change directly affects channel activity and spectral tuning. The protein also has extended regions at its ends. These regions support proper localisation in the cell membrane and influence its function.
Researchers identified HulaCCR1 through metatranscriptomic analysis of microbial communities in Lake Hula. This highlights the untapped potential of environmental microbiomes as a source of new biological tools.
The findings improve our understanding of how light driven ion channels function and evolve. They also open new opportunities for developing advanced optogenetic tools.
The study was published in 2024 on bioRxiv by Takaramoto and colleagues.
Read the full studay here.