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Genetically encoded optical indicators for the analysis of neuronal circuits
1RIKEN Brain Science Institute, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako City, Saitama 351-0198, Japan. tknopfel@knopfel-lab.net
Nature Reviews. Neuroscience
|August 31, 2012
Summary
New circuit-centric strategies use genetically encoded optical tools to precisely study neuronal circuits in behaving animals. These advanced methods are revolutionizing neuroscience by revealing how circuits generate behavior.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Systems Biology
Background:
- Traditional approaches to understanding neuronal circuits include top-down and bottom-up strategies.
- Current research emphasizes a circuit-centric approach, focusing on dissecting circuit elements and mechanisms.
- Understanding how neuronal circuits generate behavioral outputs is a key goal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review genetically encoded reporters of neuronal function.
- To assess the value of these reporters for circuit-oriented neuroscientific investigations.
- To highlight the shift towards circuit-centric research in neuroscience.
Main Methods:
- Technological advances combining genetic manipulation with light-based methods are driving progress.
- Genetically encoded optical indicators and actuators are core tools.
- These tools allow non-destructive interrogation and manipulation of neuronal circuits in behaving animals with cellular-level precision.
Main Results:
- Genetically encoded reporters provide unprecedented insights into neuronal function.
- Optical indicators enable real-time monitoring of neural activity.
- Optical actuators allow precise control over neuronal activity.
Conclusions:
- Circuit-centric strategies, powered by genetic and optical tools, are transforming neuroscience.
- Genetically encoded reporters are invaluable for dissecting neuronal circuits and their role in behavior.
- This approach facilitates a deeper understanding of brain function at the circuit level.
