Dec 8 2022

Seminar with Professor Won Do Heo of Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Department of Biological Sciences

December 8, 2022

4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Location

845 W. Taylor SES Room 138

Calendar

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Seminar:

Abstract: Optogenetic control of DNA, mRNA, and proteins in living cells and the mouse brain

Breakthroughs in biology and medicine have followed the development of novel technologies creating new avenues of investigation and therapeutics. Since I started my laboratory at KAIST in 2008 my group has been developing new imaging and optogenetic technologies for visualizing and controlling diverse molecules in live cells and animals. Optogenetic technologies developed by my group are highly advantageous compared with the first generation of optogenetics approaches based on ChR2. Out tools allow finely manipulated molecules and cells in a spatial and temporal resolution. We are applying the new technologies to study the spatiotemporal roles of biomolecules and ions (DNA, mRNA, signaling proteins, antibodies, calcium, and subcellular compartments) in living cells and the mouse brain. For example, we recently developed an ultra-light-sensitive optogenetic Ca2+ modulator, named monSTIM1 encompassing engineered cryptochrome2 for manipulating Ca2+ signaling in the brain of awake mice through non-invasive light delivery. Activation of monSTIM1 in either excitatory neurons or astrocytes in the mouse brain can induce Ca2+-dependent gene expression without any mechanical damage to the brain. Furthermore, we demonstrate that non-invasive Ca2+ modulation in neurons can be sufﬁciently and effectively translated into changes in behavioral phenotypes of awake mice. With mRNA-LARIAT, light induces the sequestration of specific exogenous or endogenous mRNAs into large protein clusters, altering mRNA localization and interfering with translation by limiting the ribosome interaction with trapped mRNA. Our ultimate goal is to provide new paradigms for future therapeutics through our optogenetics. I will talk about new approaches in cell biology studies and new strategies for therapeutics for neuronal diseases through our optogenetic tools listed below.