Mutant Nq-Rhodopsin Kr 2

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a novel mutant form of NQ-Rhodopsin (specifically a modified version of the protein KR2 from Krokinobacter eikastus), which, unlike its natural version, acts as a light-driven potassium ion pump. By introducing targeted mutations, especially at position G263, the inventors have engineered this rhodopsin to actively transport potassium ions across cell membranes in response to light. The invention also covers genetic constructs, expression systems, and host cells for producing or using this potassium pump, with particular focus on applications in controlling the electrical activity of excitable cells like neurons and muscle cells.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Optogenetic silencing of neurons in basic neuroscience research to study neural circuits and behavior.
• Precise light-based inhibition of muscle cell activity for research on muscle physiology.
• Use in high-throughput screening platforms for drug discovery targeting ion channels or electrical excitability.
• Development of novel gene therapies to modulate excitable cell activity in neurological or muscular disorders.
• In vitro assays for potassium ion transport, supporting research in membrane biophysics or pharmacology.
• Engineering of synthetic biological systems requiring light-activated potassium transport.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Provides a specific and reversible light-activated method to silence excitable cells, which is less invasive than chemical inhibitors or electrical manipulation.
• Mimics the natural action of endogenous potassium channels, minimizing disruption of normal cellular physiology.
• Versatility in use, enabling applications from optogenetic tools in research to therapeutic gene delivery.
• Improves precision and control in high-throughput screening of ion-channel modulators.
• Allows for remote, non-contact modulation of cell behavior using light.
• Can be incorporated into various organisms or cell types using genetic engineering, broadening applicability.

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to mutant NQ-Rhodopsin having potassium pumping properties, nucleic acid constructs encoding same, expression vectors carrying the nucleic acid construct, cells comprising said nucleic acid construct or expression vector, and their respective uses.