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Updated: Apr 7, 2026
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Imaging Membrane Potential with Two Types of Genetically Encoded Fluorescent Voltage Sensors
Published on: February 4, 2016
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The evolving capabilities of rhodopsin-based genetically encoded voltage indicators.
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States.
Current Opinion in Chemical Biology
|July 6, 2015
Summary
Rhodopsin-based genetically encoded voltage indicators are advancing rapidly. These tools show promise for imaging neuronal activity, nearing the goal of real-time brain function studies in live animals.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biotechnology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) are crucial for monitoring neuronal electrical activity.
- Rhodopsin-based GEVIs have emerged as promising tools for in vivo neuroscience research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the recent advancements in rhodopsin-based GEVIs.
- To highlight their potential for in vivo neuronal activity monitoring.
Main Methods:
- Protein engineering strategies including rational design and large-scale screening.
- Development of rhodopsin-fluorescent protein fusions.
- Evaluation of dynamic range, kinetics, and signal-to-noise ratios.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements in the dynamic range and kinetics of rhodopsin voltage-sensing domains.
- Bright fluorescence readout achieved through fusion with fluorescent proteins.
- Highest signal-to-noise ratios for action potential detection in neuronal cultures.
- Successful in vivo reporting of single neuronal spike events.
Conclusions:
- Rhodopsin-based GEVIs are nearing the capability for robust spike imaging in live animals.
- These indicators are poised to significantly advance the study of brain function during behavior.
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