Optovin, a novel neuroactive small molecule, acts as a photosensitive TRPA1 (transient receptor potential ankyrin 1) channel activator win EC₅₀ values of 2 µM¹. Optovin is a rhodanine derivative and activates TRPA1 channels in vitro and facilitates repeated photoactivation of motor behaviors in vivo¹.

In humans, Optovin activates TRPA1 channels through structure-dependent photochemical reactions with redox-sensitive cysteine residues. In animals with severed spinal cords Optovin enables control of motor activity in the paralyzed extremities by localized illumination¹.

TRPA1 channels are non-selective cation channels expressed in the small neurons of the dorsal root and trigeminal ganglia. They play an important role in models of inflammatory and neuropathic pain and have the ability to detect pungent or irritant compounds².