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All-optical electrophysiology in behaving animals
1Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
Journal of Neuroscience Methods
|February 18, 2021
Summary
Genetically Encoded Voltage Indicators (GEVIs) now allow optical recording of neural activity in behaving animals. This technology enables advanced
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Optogenetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Simultaneous control and readout of neuronal membrane potential in behaving animals is crucial for neuroscience research.
- Genetically Encoded Voltage Indicators (GEVIs) have advanced to enable optical recording of neural activity at high spatio-temporal resolution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe recent progress in GEVI development.
- To discuss essential components for successful 'all-optical' electrophysiology experiments in behaving animals.
- To highlight the applications and advantages of GEVI technology over traditional methods.
Main Methods:
- Development and application of Genetically Encoded Voltage Indicators (GEVIs).
- Integration of GEVIs with optogenetic actuators for 'all-optical' control and readout.
- Consideration of protein expression strategies, optical hardware, and image processing software.
Main Results:
- GEVIs can optically record subthreshold and spiking activity from neuronal ensembles in behaving animals.
- Combined GEVIs and optogenetic actuators allow for cellular-resolution 'all-optical' electrophysiology.
- GEVI technology has matured from a promising concept to a practical tool for neuroscience.
Conclusions:
- GEVI technology is now a practical tool for neuroscience research.
- GEVI-based 'all-optical' electrophysiology offers advantages over electrode-based techniques.
- This technology facilitates tackling fundamental questions in neuroscience.
