Optogenetic Tools

Optogenetics is a cutting-edge technology that employs a blend of optical and genetic methodologies to manipulate the activity of specific neurons with precision. This technique involves the integration of light-sensitive proteins into cells via gene fusion, and the utilization of a light-controlled system to modulate neural activity. The activation or inhibition of these light-sensitive proteins can govern the opening and closing of ion channels on the cell membrane, thereby altering the voltage changes of the cell membrane, such as depolarization and hyperpolarization.

Light-responsive proteins can be classified into two primary categories: opsin-based photoreceptors and photosensitive proteins.

Optogenetic Tools for Neuron Activation

Opsin	Peak Activation	Advantages
ChR2(H134R)	470 nm	ChR2(H134R) is a mutant of ChR2. ChR2(H134R) can generate twice the photocurrent, but the channel switching speed is twice as slow as wild-type ChR2.
ChETA	470 nm	ChETA is a mutant of ChR2 with faster kinetics, and neurons can fire spikes at 200 Hz when stimulated by laser.
oChIEF	450 nm - 470 nm	oChIEF can respond to high-frequency light stimulation (-100 Hz) in some neurons, accelerating the speed of channel closure and reducing the rate of inactivation under continuous light stimulation.
C1V1	540 nm - 560 nm	This type of channel protein is more conducive to two-photon excitation. It is suitable for two-photon experiments.
Chronos	500 nm – 530 nm	ShChR (Chronos) has high light sensitivity and fast switching kinetics.
ChrimsonR	590 nm – 600 nm	ChrimsonR is a K176R point mutation of CnChR1 (Chrimson), which increases the closing speed of the channel and is suitable for experiments with higher stimulation frequencies.

Optogenetic Tools for Neuronal Inhibition

Opsin	Peak Activation	Advantages
eNpHR3.0	589 nm	eNpHR3.0 has better cell membrane targeting, more sustained current, fast response time and sensitive response.
Arch	~ 566 nm	Arch can move positively charged protons from the interior of neurons to the extracellular environment, placing neurons in a hyperpolarized state. Under certain conditions, it can be used to increase intracellular pH or decrease extracellular matrix pH.
Jaws	632 nm	Jaws inhibit neuronal activity by causing an influx of chloride ions when exposed to red light.
SwiChRca	475 nm	The C1C2 chimera mutation C128A (SwiChR) can slow the closure of the channel, and the chloride channel is continuously activated by a single blue light, keeping the cells in an inhibited state.
QuasAr2	640 nm	QuasAr2 has the advantages of improved brightness and voltage sensitivity, microsecond response, and no photocurrent generated.

Please browse through our related products list of optogenetics to find the right optogenetic tools for your experiment.

Creative Biolabs provides an extensive array of optogenetic tools centered around opsin and photosensitive proteins. In addition, we also extend our services to the customization of Adeno-Associated Viruses (AAVs). Please feel free to reach out to us to expedite your optogenetic research.

For Research Use Only. Not For Clinical Use.

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