Caged Molecules: Principles and Practical Considerations

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Abstract
A caged molecule is an inert but photosensitive molecule that is transformed by photolysis into a biologically active molecule at high speed (typically 1 msec). The process is referred to as photorelease. The spatial resolution of photorelease is limited by the properties of light; submicrometer resolution is potentially achievable. Therefore, focal photorelease of caged molecules enables one to control biological processes with high spatio‐temporal precision. The principles underlying caged molecules as well as practical considerations for their use are discussed in this unit.