Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 21, 2026

In Vivo Functional Brain Imaging Approach Based on Bioluminescent Calcium Indicator GFP-aequorin
Published on: January 8, 2016
Cilioexcitatory and cilioinhibitory processes initiated by light on two identifiable neuronal pigments in Mytilus
Abstract:
Two neuronal chromoproteins (red-haemoprotein and yellow-carotenoprotein) initiate changes in ciliary activity on the gill of Mytilus. Photic, electrical and chemical stimulation of these chromoproteins correlate with fluctuations in ionic (calcium and iron) deposits in gill bulk tissue samples. Microspectrophotometric measurements of chromoprotein spectral band patterns reveal two or three absorption maxima for carotenoprotein and haemoprotein respectively. Under aerobic conditions, cilioinhibition and cilioexcitation results after activation of carotenoprotein or haemoprotein respectively. Carotenoproteins are only engaged during gradual anoxia. Immediate anoxia renders both chromoproteins inoperative. Changes in ciliary activity initiated by photic stimulation of neuronal chromoproteins are abolished by denervation of the gill. It is postulated that photoactivation and/or release of specific neurotransmitters lead to transformations in chromoproteins with subsequent neuronal regulation of gill ciliary activity.
Related Concept Videos
Photoreceptors and Plant Responses to Light
The Photochemical Reaction Center
Channel Rhodopsins
Rhodopsins belong to the family of cell surface proteins called G-protein coupled receptors,...
Mechanism of Ciliary Motion
The cilia are made up of microtubules in a 9+2 arrangement, with nine microtubule doublet ring bundles, surrounding a pair of central singlet microtubule bundles. The doublet microtubule bundles are...
G-Protein Gated Ion Channels
Sensory organs,...
Photoreceptors and Visual Pathways

