Curated Optogenetic Publication Database

Abstract: Lattice lightsheet microscopy (LLSM) is modified with the aim of manipulating cellular behavior with subcellular resolution through three-dimensional (3D) optogenetic activation. In this study, we report a straightforward implementation of the activation source in LLSM in which the stimulating light can be generated by changing the spatial light modulator (SLM) patterns and the annual masks. As a result, a Bessel beam as a stimulation source is integrated into the LLSM without changing the optical configuration, achieving high spatiotemporal activation. We show that the energy power required for optogenetic reactions is lower than 1 nW (24 mW/cm2) and membrane ruffling can be activated at different locations within a cell with subcellular resolution. We also demonstrate guided cell migration using optogenetic stimulation for up to 6 h with 463 volume imaging without noticeable damage to cells.

Abstract: Intercellular endosomes (IEs) are endocytosed vesicles shuttled through the adherens junctions (AJs) between two neighboring epidermal cells during Drosophila dorsal closure. The cell-to-cell transport of IEs requires DE-cadherin (DE-cad), microtubules (MTs) and kinesin. However, the mechanisms by which IEs can be transported through the AJs are unknown. Here, we demonstrate the presence of AJ-associated pores with MTs traversing through the pores. Live imaging allows direct visualization of IEs being transported through the AJ-associated pores. By using an optogenetic dimerization system, we observe that the dimerized IE-kinesin complexes move across AJs into the neighboring cell. The AJ-associated pores also allow intercellular movement of soluble proteins. Importantly, most epidermal cells form dorsoventral-oriented two-cell syncytia. Together, we present a model in which an AJ-associated pore mediates the intercellular transport of IEs and proteins between two cells in direct contact.