Versatile switch for light-controlled cells: The structure of the light-driven ion pump KR2 may provide a blueprint for new optogenetic tools

Scientists have uncovered the atomic structure of KR2, a light-driven transporter for sodium ions which had only recently been discovered. Based on the structural information the team then identified a simple way to turn KR2 from a sodium- into a potassium pump using simple means. Integrated into neurons, this could make KR2 a valuable tool for optogenetics, a new field of research that uses light-sensitive proteins as molecular switches to precisely control the activity of neurons and other electrically excitable cells using light impulses. - Source      

Versatile switch for light-controlled cells: The structure of the light-driven ion pump KR2 may provide a blueprint for new optogenetic tools