In this picture of a multicellular Volvox alga, the green circle represents something very important – its third eye.
Back in 2002, researchers identified two ion channels present in the algal cells that operated as quasi-eyes, or, at least, light detectors that triggered the photosynthetic organisms to move toward light sources.
Now, a team led by Georg Nagel from Germany’s Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg has discovered a third, labelled here in fluorescent green.
This one, however, is different, effectively checking balancing the other two: its functions are dampened, rather than boosted, by exposure to light.
Nagel and colleagues suggest further investigations could yield fresh approaches in the field of optogenetics.
The research is published in the journal BMC Biology.
Originally published by Cosmos as Algae, tripping the light. Fantastic
Cosmos
Curated content from the editorial staff at Cosmos Magazine.
Read science facts, not fiction...
There’s never been a more important time to explain the facts, cherish evidence-based knowledge and to showcase the latest scientific, technological and engineering breakthroughs. Cosmos is published by The Royal Institution of Australia, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the world of science. Financial contributions, however big or small, help us provide access to trusted science information at a time when the world needs it most. Please support us by making a donation or purchasing a subscription today.
