Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 13, 2026

Light-mediated Reversible Modulation of the Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase Pathway during Cell Differentiation and Xenopus Embryonic Development
Published on: June 15, 2017
Optogenetics and translational medicine
Brian Y Chow1, Edward S Boyden
1Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA. bchow@seas.upenn.edu
Abstract:
Optogenetic tools enable light-mediated control of cellular excitability and signaling in vivo. By manipulating biological processes, scientists can determine the roles played by these processes in intact biological systems, such as the brain. Such cellular-level control has greatly affected basic science. Here, we discuss how optogenetic tools might be translated into clinical impact through identification of new molecular and circuit-level targets and provide temporally precise interventions for defined biochemical or cellular events.
Related Concept Videos
Transgenic Organisms
Microorganisms in Medicine and Therapeutics

