The rise and shine of yeast optogenetics. Issue 2 (4th December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Figueroa, David; Rojas, Vicente; Romero, Andres; Larrondo, Luis F.; Salinas, Francisco
• Is Part Of: Yeast. Volume 38:Issue 2(2021)
• Page Start: 131
• Page End: 146
• Publication Date: 2020-12-04
• Subjects: gene expression -- optogenetics -- photoreceptors -- yeast; Yeast -- Periodicals; Yeasts -- Periodicals; Yeasts -- genetics -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 547
• DOI: 10.1002/yea.3529
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0749-503X

Abstract

Abstract: Optogenetics refers to the control of biological processes with light. The activation of cellular phenomena by defined wavelengths has several advantages compared with traditional chemically inducible systems, such as spatiotemporal resolution, dose–response regulation, low cost, and moderate toxic effects. Optogenetics has been successfully implemented in yeast, a remarkable biological platform that is not only a model organism for cellular and molecular biology studies, but also a microorganism with diverse biotechnological applications. In this review, we summarize the main optogenetic systems implemented in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which allow orthogonal control (by light) of gene expression, protein subcellular localization, reconstitution of protein activity, and protein sequestration by oligomerization. Furthermore, we review the application of optogenetic systems in the control of metabolic pathways, heterologous protein production and flocculation. We then revise an example of a previously described yeast optogenetic switch, named FUN‐LOV, which allows precise and strong activation of the target gene. Finally, we describe optogenetic systems that have not yet been implemented in yeast, which could therefore be used to expand the panel of available tools in this biological chassis. In conclusion, a wide repertoire of optogenetic systems can be used to address fundamental biological questions and broaden the biotechnological toolkit in yeast. Abstract : Optogenetics is the control of biological processes utilizing light. The budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a microorganism unable of light‐sensing and without photoreceptors encoded in its genome. This makes yeast an ideal platform for optogenetics, where light can be used as an orthogonal stimulus to control different phenotypes. Here, we revise the main optogenetic systems implemented in yeast and their applications in metabolic engineering and biotechnology. Finally, we propose how to expand the current repertoire of optogenetic tools in yeast. Take Away: The budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae has become a powerful biological platform for optogenetics, allowing the use of light to control diverse phenotypes. In this review, we summarized the main optogenetic tools implemented in yeast and their applications in metabolic engineering and biotechnology. Finally, we propose different sources of building blocks to expand the current repertoire of optogenetic systems in yeast.