Application of optogenetics-mediated motor cortex stimulation in the treatment of chronic neuropathic pain

Motor cortex stimulation provides an alternate approach for intractable pain treatment. Optogenetic manipulation can produce gain- or loss-of-function in specific type of cells following light application. This state-of-the-art technology may be used in motor cortex stimulation to produce circuit-specific neuromodulation and regulate neuronal activities in motor cortex, thereby treating pain in the clinic. Here, we discuss the principle of optogenetics-mediated motor cortex stimulation and discuss its potential application in the treatment of chronic neuropathic pain.