Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2025
08:32
Large Volume, Behaviorally-relevant Illumination for Optogenetics in Non-human Primates
Published on: October 3, 2017
8.1K
Head-mounted optical imaging and optogenetic stimulation system for use in behaving primates
Derek Zaraza1, Mykyta M Chernov1, Yiyuan Yang2
1Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA.
Cell Reports Methods
|January 2, 2023
Summary
Researchers developed an affordable optical device for primate brain imaging and optogenetic stimulation. This new technology enables widefield visualization of neural activity and targeted stimulation in awake, behaving primates for ethological studies.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Optical Imaging
- Primate Research
Background:
- Optical imaging and stimulation are crucial for understanding brain function in freely behaving animals.
- Existing technologies for primate brain studies are often complex or limited in scope.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a novel, affordable optical imaging and stimulation device for use in primates.
- To demonstrate the device's capability for widefield optical imaging and optogenetic stimulation in primates.
Main Methods:
- The device integrates a monochromatic camera, lens, wireless μLED stimulator, and LED illumination array.
- Components are commercially available or 3D-printed, attaching easily to an intracranial chamber.
- Functional organization of the visual cortex was assessed in awake macaques and under anesthesia.
Main Results:
- The device's intrinsic imaging performance is comparable to standard benchtop systems.
- Wireless optogenetic stimulation modulated neural activity in targeted functional domains.
- The device achieved a 1-2 cm field of view, significantly larger than previous primate studies without head restraint.
Conclusions:
- This device offers a cost-effective solution for widefield optical imaging and optogenetic stimulation in primates.
- It facilitates ethological studies by enabling brain function analysis in non-head-restrained, behaving primates.
- The technology advances the study of primate brain function and neural modulation.
