halorhodopsiini

Halorhodopsin is a sensory receptor protein found in the cell membranes of halophilic archaea. It belongs to the family of rhodopsins, which are light-sensitive proteins. Specifically, halorhodopsin functions as an ion pump, mediating the outward transport of chloride ions (Cl-) across the cell membrane in response to light. This process is driven by the absorption of photons, which causes a conformational change in the protein. The outward movement of negatively charged chloride ions creates an electrochemical gradient across the membrane, contributing to the cell's energy metabolism and osmotic balance. Halorhodopsin is distinct from bacteriorhodopsin, another light-driven proton pump found in some archaea, although both utilize similar photochemistry involving a retinal chromophore. The discovery and characterization of halorhodopsin have provided valuable insights into the diversity of light-energy conversion mechanisms in microorganisms. Researchers are interested in halorhodopsin for its potential applications in optogenetics and bioengineering due to its light-gated ion transport properties.