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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
13:44
A Method for High Fidelity Optogenetic Control of Individual Pyramidal Neurons In vivo
Published on: September 2, 2013
Remote control of neuronal signaling
1University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, 120 Mason Farm Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA.
Pharmacological Reviews
|March 19, 2011
Summary
Neuroscientists use novel tools like designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) and microbial opsins to precisely control neural signals. This enables better understanding of how brain activity translates into behavior.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Understanding the brain-behavior link requires precise control over neural activity.
- Current methods face limitations in spatiotemporal precision and bidirectionality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and evaluate advanced tools for remote, bidirectional manipulation of neuronal signals.
- To highlight the development and application of these tools in neuroscience research.
Main Methods:
- Focus on designer G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and microbial opsins.
- Discussion of techniques including orthogonal receptors, caged ligands, and allosteric modulators.
- Analysis of tools based on their activation/inhibition capabilities, kinetics, spatial resolution, and invasiveness.
Main Results:
- Designer GPCRs and microbial opsins offer precise control over neuronal firing via light or small molecules.
- These tools allow for monitoring electrophysiological, biochemical, and behavioral outcomes.
- Diverse tools exhibit varying strengths and weaknesses regarding control and application.
Conclusions:
- Novel optogenetic and chemogenetic tools significantly advance the ability to study brain function.
- Continued development is needed to overcome limitations and enhance precision.
- These tools are crucial for deciphering the complex relationship between neural circuits and behavior.
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