CultureAugust 9, 2026

optogenetics

OP-toh-jeh-NET-iks

Definition

A biological technique that uses light to control the activity of individual cells or specific gene expressions.

Etymology

The word is a portmanteau of the Greek 'optikos' (relating to sight) and 'genetics' (the study of heredity and genes). It was coined to describe the precise, light-driven control of genetic processes.

In the news

In the article, researchers use optogenetics to precisely control yeast cell activity with light, allowing for more predictable and cleaner biological manufacturing. This replaces the need for chemical inducers, which can be harder to manage.

Optogenetics: Controlling yeast with light

Read the full article ↗

The Straits Times

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