Platform on Molecular Optogenetics

OptoBase is an annotated database, which aims to cover all existing non-opsin-based optogenetic switches and publications. It is meant for both expert optogeneticists, to easily keep track of the field, as well as for all researchers who find optogenetics inviting as a powerful tool to address their biological questions of interest.

Cite as: K. Kolar et al.: OptoBase: A Web Platform for Molecular Optogenetics. ACS Synth. Biol. 2018, DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.8b00120

News & Updates (see all entries)
Jan. 02, 2023 | Research Highlights in December

Paper of the Month December: Rapid and reversible optogenetic silencing of synaptic transmission by clustering of synaptic vesicles.

Featured Paper: Learn more about optogenetic inactivation of proteins with the "LARIAT" tool. 

Dec. 04, 2022 | Research Highlights in November

Paper of the Month November:  Patterned mechanical feedback establishes a global myosin gradient.

Featured Paper: First published application of an optogentic switch in Drosophila: Fast manipulation of cellular cAMP level by light in vivo.

Submit new content!

Suggest a new paper, switch or a 3D structure, add a glossary entry or material source. Or simply send us feedback.

Optogenetic Switches

(see the extended overview of the switches)

Click on a switch for additional information.

Fluorescent proteins

PhoCl

BLUF domains

PixD/PixE

LOV domains

AsLOV2 LOVTRAP iLID TULIP AtLOV2 BcLOV4 CrLOV1
EL222 FKF1/GI NcWC1-LOV RsLOV VfAU1-LOV VVD Magnets
YtvA PtAU1-LOV cpLOV2 cpLOVTRAP cpLID

Phytochromes

BphP1/PpsR2 BphP1/Q-PAS1
UV Violet Blue Cyan Green Yellow Red Far Red
300 nm 400 nm 500 nm 600 nm 700 nm

UV receptors

UVR8/COP1 UVR8/UVR8

Cryptochromes

CRY2/CIB1 CRY2/CRY2 CRY2clust CRY2olig

Fluorescent proteins

PYP

Fluorescent proteins

Dronpa145K/N Dronpa145N pdDronpa1

Cobalamin-binding domains

MxCBD TtCBD

Cyanobacteriochromes

Am1_c0023g2/BAm_green

Phytochromes

Cph1 DrBphP PhyA/FHY1 & PhyA/FHL PhyB/PIF3 & PhyB/PIF6

Cyanobacteriochromes

Am1_c0023g2/BAm_red