Directed evolution approaches for optogenetic tool development.
blue
green
near-infrared
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Cryptochromes
Cyanobacteriochromes
Fluorescent proteins
LOV domains
Phytochromes
Review
Abstract:
Photoswitchable proteins enable specific molecular events occurring in complex biological settings to be probed in a rapid and reversible fashion. Recent progress in the development of photoswitchable proteins as components of optogenetic tools has been greatly facilitated by directed evolution approaches in vitro, in bacteria, or in yeast. We review these developments and suggest future directions for this rapidly advancing field.