CANDO Illustrations

Vector infection of neurons

In order to get neurons to make opsin proteins, the DNA for the opsins has to be introduced into the cell.  This is done via the use of a vector. A vector is a virus that has been modified to make it safe. The vector attaches itself onto the cell wall and merges with the cell inserting the opsin RNA via a capsid into the cell body.  Within the neuron cell the RNA will be converted into DNA and integrate it into the cells own DNA allowing the cell to produce the protein.