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Updated: Jun 7, 2026

In vivo Optogenetic Stimulation of the Rodent Central Nervous System

In vivo Optogenetic Stimulation of the Rodent Central Nervous System

Published on: January 15, 2015

Optogenetic approaches in neuroscience.

André Fiala¹, Anna Suska, Oliver M Schlüter

¹Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach-Institute for Zoology and Anthropology, Molecular Neurobiology of Behavior, c/o ENI-G, Grisebachstr. 5, Göttingen, Germany. Andre.Fiala@biologie.uni-goettingen.de

Current Biology : CB

|October 26, 2010

Summary

Optogenetics uses light-sensitive proteins to control nerve cell activity. This technique allows researchers to precisely manipulate and study neuronal circuits and behavior.

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Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Molecular Biology
Genetics

Background:

Optogenetics is a novel technique enabling precise control over neuronal function.
It involves expressing light-sensitive proteins in genetically defined neurons.

Purpose of the Study:

To explain the fundamental principles of optogenetic manipulation in neuroscience.
To summarize the current applications of optogenetics in studying neuronal circuits and behavior.

Main Methods:

Genetic strategies for expressing light-sensitive channel proteins in neurons.
Selective activation or silencing of neurons through targeted illumination.

Main Results:

Demonstration of how optogenetics allows for light-induced control of neuronal activity.

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A Method for High Fidelity Optogenetic Control of Individual Pyramidal Neurons In vivo

A Method for High Fidelity Optogenetic Control of Individual Pyramidal Neurons In vivo

Published on: September 2, 2013

Laser-scanning Photostimulation of Optogenetically Targeted Forebrain Circuits

Laser-scanning Photostimulation of Optogenetically Targeted Forebrain Circuits

Published on: December 27, 2013

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jun 7, 2026

In vivo Optogenetic Stimulation of the Rodent Central Nervous System

In vivo Optogenetic Stimulation of the Rodent Central Nervous System

Published on: January 15, 2015

A Method for High Fidelity Optogenetic Control of Individual Pyramidal Neurons In vivo

A Method for High Fidelity Optogenetic Control of Individual Pyramidal Neurons In vivo

Published on: September 2, 2013

Laser-scanning Photostimulation of Optogenetically Targeted Forebrain Circuits

Laser-scanning Photostimulation of Optogenetically Targeted Forebrain Circuits

Published on: December 27, 2013

Overview of diverse applications in neuroscience research.

Conclusions:

Optogenetics provides powerful tools for investigating the complexities of neuronal circuits.
This technique is instrumental in advancing our understanding of behavior and neural function.