The form and function of channelrhodopsin

From biophysics to neuroscience tools The channelrhodopsins and their distinctive light-activated ion channels have emerged as major tools in modern biological research. Deisseroth and Hegemann review the structural and functional properties of these protein photoreceptors. Mutagenesis and modeling studies, coupled with the reintroduction of modified channels into living systems, offer a profound understanding of how these channels work. The insights into the underlying basic science provide foundations for developing further applications in biology and medicine. Science , this issue p. eaan5544