Abstract: Studying of algal optogenetics makes a difference for that optogenetics, as a original technology, can help in the research of neuroscience and so on. The optogenetics is derived from the study of algal photoreceptors and continues to obtain new optogenetic tools from algae. Highly sensitive photoreceptors include channelrhodopsin in algae can change their conformation in response to different light qualities on a subsecond time scale，and induce physiological and behavioral responses. This paper reviewed the research progress of classification and functions of algal photoreceptor proteins, as well as in vivo functions of algal photoreceptors and the applications, it is expected to give some references for who will devote to the further study.

Key words: algal photobiology, optogenetics, photoreceptors, channel rhodopsin