Controlling cell behavior using their high-resolution light-sensing capability [Engineering in Genomics]

To gain control over the cellular environment for the study and manipulation of biological systems, it is important to understand the signals and stimuli that provoke cellular mechanisms. Techniques for the perturbation and analysis at the single-cell resolution are crucial for understanding the behavior and mechanisms within the cellular environment. Thus, there is a need for the development of a new technology with the capability to manipulate and study individual cells. One promising technology utilizes light as a mechanism for delivering an active signal to cells. As light can be directed with exquisite precision in time and space, this presents an advantageous delivery system for initiating and controlling signaling events.