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Updated: May 16, 2026
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Optogenetic Manipulation of Neuronal Activity to Modulate Behavior in Freely Moving Mice
Published on: October 27, 2020
Optogenetic neuromodulation
Paul S A Kalanithi1, Jaimie M Henderson
1Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA.
International Review of Neurobiology
|December 5, 2012
Summary
Optogenetics, a gene therapy providing precise neural control, offers new insights into brain function and disease mechanisms. Its successful translation in primates suggests future potential for clinical neuromodulation therapies.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gene Therapy
- Neuromodulation
Background:
- Optogenetics is a revolutionary neuroscience research tool.
- It enables precise spatial and temporal control of specific neuronal populations.
- This technique offers new insights into clinical neuroscience.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential evolution of clinical neuromodulation tools.
- To highlight the insights gained from optogenetics in neuroscience.
- To discuss the translational progress of optogenetics towards human use.
Main Methods:
- Optogenetics allows for highly precise control over neuronal activity.
- The technique involves a form of gene therapy.
- Applications include studying functional magnetic resonance imaging and deep brain stimulation.
Main Results:
- Optogenetics has provided new insights into the physiological substrate of fMRI.
- It has elucidated mechanisms of deep brain stimulation in Parkinson's disease.
- Translational studies in rhesus macaques have shown success.
Conclusions:
- Optogenetic techniques offer increased precision for potential human use.
- Ongoing translational efforts in primates are promising.
- These developments are of significant interest to neurologists and neurosurgeons.
