...E123T mutation; faster kinetics but reduced photocurrent amplitude 490 ChR/T159C T159C mutation; displays...improve these natural opsins by inducing point mutations to alter the absorption spectrum or adding trafficking... variants have been created via genetic point mutations, codon optimization, and chimeric fusion of domains...function as light-gated cation channels resulting in excitation (depolarization) of the neuron. Inhibitory (hyperpolarizing...complexity of these signaling networks and other limitations like bleaching. A more selective way to stimulate...injection of a small molecule is less invasive than implantation of fiber optics, making LMOs a versatile option...Chlamydomonas reinhardtii Name Description Peak excitation λ (nm) ChR2 Widely used light-gated cation channel...