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Bioluminescent Optogenetics 2.0: Harnessing Bioluminescence to Activate Photosensory Proteins In Vitro and In Vivo
Published on: August 4, 2021
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Applications of Bioluminescence-Optogenetics in Rodent Models
Matthew A Stern1, Henry Skelton1, Alejandra M Fernandez1
1Department of Neurosurgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|July 14, 2022
Summary
This chapter details bioluminescence-optogenetics (BL-OG) and luminopsin fusion proteins (LMOs) for neuromodulation. It provides a practical guide for applying these techniques in rodent nervous system models, both ex vivo and in vivo.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Optogenetics
Background:
- Bioluminescence-optogenetics (BL-OG) and luminopsin fusion proteins (LMOs) represent an emerging field in molecular neuromodulation.
- BL-OG utilizes luciferin, a readily diffusible molecule, enabling convenient neuromodulation.
- Previous work discussed BL-OG principles and in vitro applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a practical guide for BL-OG and LMO application in rodent models.
- To detail ex vivo and in vivo experimental approaches for nervous system research.
Main Methods:
- Systemic administration of luciferin in rodent models.
- Application of BL-OG and LMOs in ex vivo and in vivo rodent nervous system preparations.
- Neuromodulation techniques for awake and behaving animals.
Main Results:
- Luciferin effectively spreads throughout the rodent body, including the brain.
- Achieved powerful molecular neuromodulation with convenience in animal models.
- Demonstrated feasibility of BL-OG and LMOs in both ex vivo and in vivo settings.
Conclusions:
- BL-OG and LMOs offer a versatile and effective method for neuromodulation in rodent models.
- The described practical guide facilitates the application of these techniques in neuroscience research.
- BL-OG provides a convenient approach for studying the nervous system in vivo.
