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|December 2, 2020
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Summary

Bioluminescence is widely used for reporting, but emerging methods use it as a biological light source to control cell behavior and physiology. This review explores these novel applications and their potential in synthetic biology.

Keywords:
BRETbioluminescencelight-based communicationluciferaseluciferinluminopsinoptogeneticsphotosensitisersynthetic biology

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Area of Science:

  • Biotechnology
  • Synthetic Biology
  • Cellular Physiology

Background:

  • Bioluminescence technologies are crucial for quantifying and visualizing cellular and organismal physiology.
  • The application of bioluminescence is predominantly limited to reporter gene assays.
  • Significant untapped potential exists for bioluminescence beyond its conventional use.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an overview of emerging bioluminescence applications.
  • To highlight the use of bioluminescence as an active biological light source.
  • To discuss future prospects in synthetic biology.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of emerging bioluminescence applications.
  • Analysis of studies utilizing bioluminescence to trigger physiological events.
  • Exploration of research on bioluminescence controlling cell behavior.

Main Results:

  • Bioluminescence is being explored as a trigger for physiological events.
  • Emerging techniques use bioluminescence to actively control cell behavior.
  • These novel approaches offer new avenues for biological research and manipulation.

Conclusions:

  • Bioluminescence offers a promising biological light source for novel applications.
  • The potential of bioluminescence extends beyond reporter systems.
  • Future applications in synthetic biology are significant and warrant further investigation.