CultureAugust 9, 2026

ilight

EYE-lyte

Definition

A light-sensitive genetic tool adapted by researchers to control gene expression in yeast cells using red light.

Etymology

The name is a portmanteau blending 'light' with the letter 'i', often used in biotechnology to denote engineered tools or indicators that respond to specific inputs.

In the news

The article discusses the development of 'y-iLight,' a specific version of this tool engineered to allow researchers to trigger yeast activity without chemical inducers.

Optogenetics: Controlling yeast with light

Read the full article ↗

The Straits Times

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