title: Biophysical Properties of Optogenetic Tools and Their Application for Vision Restoration Approaches.
abstract: Optogenetics is the use of genetically encoded light-activated proteins to manipulate cells in a minimally invasive way using light. The most prominent example is channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2), which allows the activation of electrically excitable cells via light-dependent depolarization. The combination of ChR2 with hyperpolarizing-light-driven ion pumps such as the Cl(-) pump halorhodopsin (NpHR) enables multimodal remote control of neuronal cells in culture, tissue, and living animals. Very soon, it became obvious that this method offers a chance of gene therapy for many diseases affecting vision. Here, we will give a brief introduction to retinal function and retinal diseases; optogenetic vision restoration strategies will be highlighted. We will discuss the functional and structural properties of rhodopsin-based optogenetic tools and analyze the potential for the application of vision restoration.
authors.affiliation: Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden Dresden, Germany.
authors.forename: Simon D
authors.initials: SD
authors.lastname: Klapper
authors.affiliation: Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden Dresden, Germany.
authors.forename: Anka
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Swiersy
authors.affiliation: Max Planck Institute of Biophysics Frankfurt, Germany.
authors.forename: Ernst
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Bamberg
authors.affiliation: Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden Dresden, Germany.
authors.forename: Volker
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Busskamp
keywords: channelrhodopsin; halorhodopsin; optogenetics; retinal degeneration; retinitis pigmentosa