Selective control of synaptically-connected circuit elements by all-optical synapses
Mansi Prakash1, Jeremy Murphy2, Robyn St Laurent3,4
1College of Medicine, Central Michigan University, Mt Pleasant, MI, USA.
Communications Biology
|January 12, 2022
Summary
Researchers developed a novel method called Interluminescence to control neural circuits. This technique uses bioluminescent light to precisely modulate synaptic activity between specific neurons in real-time for circuit control.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Understanding neural circuits requires precise control over synaptic communication.
- Existing methods for modulating neuronal activity have limitations in specificity and real-time control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel method for synapse-specific and activity-dependent control of neural circuits.
- To enable real-time modulation of synaptic communication using bioluminescent light.
Main Methods:
- Developed an "Optical Synapse" using vesicular-localized luciferase released from presynaptic terminals.
- Luciferase generates light upon addition of luciferin, modulating postsynaptic opsins.
- Validated the technique using multi-electrode recordings in cultured neurons and in vivo in mice.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated successful transmission across the optical synapse, controlled by presynaptic activity and luciferin presence.
- Validated Interluminescence for synapse-specific circuit control in both in vitro and in vivo models.
- Showcased the temporal control of signal transmission through this novel method.
Conclusions:
- Interluminescence provides a powerful new tool for controlling neural circuits with high specificity.
- This approach allows for activity-dependent modulation of synaptic communication in real-time.
- Interluminescence has significant potential for advancing neuroscience research and understanding neural function.
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