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Updated: Sep 4, 2025
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Bioluminescent Optogenetics 2.0: Harnessing Bioluminescence to Activate Photosensory Proteins In Vitro and In Vivo
Published on: August 4, 2021
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Bioluminescence-Optogenetics: A Practical Guide
Matthew A Stern1, Henry Skelton1, Alejandra M Fernandez1
1Department of Neurosurgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|July 14, 2022
Summary
We introduce bioluminescence-optogenetics (BL-OG), a novel method using light-emitting proteins to control neural activity. This technique offers a new avenue for neuroscience research and potential treatments for neurological disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Optogenetics
Background:
- Genetic manipulation of neural activity is crucial for neuroscience research.
- It holds potential for treating neurological and psychiatric disorders.
- Existing methods require external light sources.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe bioluminescence-optogenetics (BL-OG), a novel neuromodulation technique.
- To provide a practical guide for applying BL-OG and luminopsins (LMOs) in vitro.
- To lay the groundwork for future in vivo applications.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing bioluminescence (BL) to activate light-driven ion channels and pumps in neurons.
- Developing opsin-luciferase fusion proteins called luminopsins (LMOs).
- Applying BL-OG in cell lines and primary neuronal cultures.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated the feasibility of controlling neural activity using BL-OG in vitro.
- Established luminopsins (LMOs) as effective tools for BL-OG.
- Provided a foundational protocol for BL-OG implementation.
Conclusions:
- Bioluminescence-optogenetics (BL-OG) offers a promising, light-independent approach for neural activity control.
- Luminopsins (LMOs) are effective tools for this novel neuromodulation technique.
- This in vitro study paves the way for advanced BL-OG applications in complex biological systems.
