Optogenetics technology works in several steps, beginning with the adaptation of individual genes from single-celled organisms for use as tools to study specific behaviors in animals (typically mice). These single genes, known as microbial opsins, produce proteins that function as light-sensitive ion channels or pumps. Genetics tools are then used to target the opsin genes to certain cells, and advanced optics are used to aim precisely timed pulses of light at specific tissue regions or cells.
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