BioLuminescent OptoGenetics: Molecular Control with Biological Light

This book provides an overview of and introduction to the use of bioluminescence for controlling light-sensing molecules. Different from the standard use of bioluminescence in imaging applications in vitro and in vivo, bioluminescent optogenetics harnesses molecularly produced light to activate the wide range of light-controllable modules available, from ion channels to transcription factors. The book covers the principal biological mechanisms of light emission and light sensing and the palette of tools enabled when combining genetically encoded light production with light sensing for use within and across cells. Through examples covering the main applications, Bioluminescent Optogenetics provides a practical guide for using this powerful platform for neuroscience and beyond.

Ute Hochgeschwender graduated from the Freie Universität in Berlin, Germany, with degrees in medicine (MD) and philosophy (MA). Her research focused on development and application of molecular genetic tools for basic and translational neuroscience. Over the past several years, she established a research program that advances the concept of using biological light, i.e. light generated by a protein, a luciferase, to control light-sensing photoreceptors. An important goal in addition to the continuous development of this BioLuminescent OptoGenetics technology is the application of these tools for research into the mechanisms and potential, non-invasive treatment of neurological and psychiatric diseases.