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Adv."],"published-print":{"date-parts":[[2026,5,1]]},"abstract":"<jats:p>Most neurons are embedded in multiple circuits, with signaling to distinct postsynaptic partners playing functionally different roles. The function of specific connections can be interrogated using synaptically localized optogenetic effectors; however, these tools are often experimentally difficult to validate or produce paradoxical outcomes. We have developed a system for photoablation of synaptic connections originating from genetically defined neurons based on presynaptic localization of the fluorogen-activating protein dL5** that acts as a photosensitizer when bound to a cell-permeable fluorogen dye. Using the well-mapped zebrafish escape circuit as a readout, we first show that cytoplasmically expressed dL5** enables efficient spatially targeted neuronal ablation using near-infrared light. We then demonstrate that spatially patterned illumination of presynaptically localized dL5** (syp-dL5) can effectively disconnect neurons from selected downstream partners, suppressing postsynaptic responses and producing precise behavioral deficits. 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