PACα--an optogenetic tool for in vivo manipulation of cellular cAMP levels, neurotransmitter release, and behavior in Caenorhabditis elegans.

摘要: J. Neurochem. (2011) 116, 616–625. Abstract Photoactivated adenylyl cyclase α (PACα) was originally isolated from the flagellate Euglena gracilis. Following stimulation by blue light it causes a rapid increase in cAMP levels. In present study, we expressed PACα cholinergic neurons of Caenorhabditis elegans. Photoactivation led to rise swimming frequency, speed locomotion, and decrease number backward locomotion episodes. The extent light-induced behavioral effects dependent on amount that expressed. Furthermore, electrophysiological recordings body wall muscle cells revealed an miniature post-synaptic currents during stimulation. We conclude observed were caused synthesis because photoactivation pre-synaptic which subsequently triggered acetylcholine release at neuromuscular junction. Our results demonstrate can be used as optogenetic tool C. elegans for straightforward vivo manipulation intracellular levels light, with good temporal control high cell specificity. Thus, using allows neurotransmitter behavior directly affecting signaling.