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Optimizing Magnetic Force Microscopy Resolution and Sensitivity to Visualize Nanoscale Magnetic Domains
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Enhancing the performance of Magnets photosensors
Armin Baumschlager1, Yanik Weber2,3, David Cánovas4
1Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE), ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland. armin.baumschlager@me.com.
Nature Communications
|March 19, 2026
Summary
Researchers engineered photosensitive proteins for optogenetics by altering light sensitivity and activation. This strategy enhances control over optogenetic regulation in bioengineering and basic research applications.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Molecular Biology
- Optogenetics
Background:
- Photosensory protein domains are essential for optogenetic protein engineering.
- Tailoring these domains allows for precise optogenetic regulation in research and bioengineering.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a strategy for altering the light sensitivity and activation of the nMag/pMag photodimerization system.
- To broaden the applicability of Magnets photosensors for optogenetic regulation.
Main Methods:
- Random mutagenesis coupled with high-throughput screening.
- In vivo characterization in bacteria using flow cytometry and spectrofluorometry.
- Analysis of dose-response curves.
Main Results:
- Identified mutations that independently modulate light sensitivity and activation.
- Achieved improved light activation and dark-to-light fold change.
- Demonstrated fine-tuning of dose-response curve shapes.
Conclusions:
- The developed strategy effectively alters fundamental properties of photosensory proteins.
- Enhanced photosensors offer broader applicability for optogenetic control in diverse biological systems.
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