Optical control of neuronal activity using a light-operated GIRK channel opener (LOGO).

ABSTRACT: G-protein coupled inwardly rectifying potassium channels (GIRKs) are ubiquitously expressed throughout the human body and are an integral part of inhibitory signal transduction pathways. Upon binding of G_βγ subunits released from G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), GIRK channels open and reduce the activity of excitable cells via hyperpolarization. As such, they play a role in cardiac output, the coordination of movement and cognition. Due to their involvement in a multitude of pathways, the precision control of GIRK channels is an important endeavour. Here, we describe the development of the photoswitchable agonist LOGO (the Light Operated GIRK-channel Opener), which activates GIRK channels in the dark and is rapidly deactivated upon exposure

SUBMITTER: Barber DM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5234268 | biostudies-literature | 2016

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature