Light-guided evolution creates proteins that can switch, sense, and compute

Researchers have created a method called optovolution that uses light to guide the evolution of proteins with dynamic behaviors. By engineering yeast cells so their survival depended on proteins switching states at the right time, scientists could rapidly select the best-performing variants. The technique produced new light-sensitive proteins that respond to different colors and improved optogenetic systems. It even evolved a protein that behaves like a tiny logic gate, activating genes only when two signals are present. Today, scientists apply similar principles in the lab through a technique known as directed evolution. Researchers use it to improve proteins such as enzymes and antibodies that play important roles in medicine, industrial manufacturing, and even eve... [4806 chars]