The Emerging Role of Optogenetics in Multiple Sclerosis Research
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 31, 2026
Optogenetic Manipulation of Neuronal Activity to Modulate Behavior in Freely Moving Mice
Published on: October 27, 2020
Hala AbouShawareb1, Boshra Attiya2, Asmaa Zakria Alnajjar3
1Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.
Background:
Optogenetics is a technique that uses light to manipulate genetically targeted neurons and has a potential role in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). This review aims to examine how findings from current cell and animal studies in optogenetics may inform and advance future research in MS in humans.
Methods:
We conducted a narrative literature review of in vivo and in vitro animal studies investigating optogenetic applications in MS, focusing on their potential to enhance therapeutic outcomes.
Results:
Our review generated 58 articles related to our topic, and 9 of them were included. Optogenetics enhances remyelination by promoting the differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells into myelinating cells, thereby easing neural repair in demyelinated regions and restoring normal cognitive function in the animal model of MS. In addition, optogenetics offers valuable insights into MS by enabling the study of specific gene mutations, such as heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1, paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies.
Conclusions:
This review discusses the future of optogenetics as a potential treatment for MS. This innovative technology may offer an improved approach to managing the disease, offering refined control over drug delivery, remyelination, and gene therapy. Further research should prioritize optimizing these technologies for clinical use and exploring their potential in combination therapies to improve patient outcomes. More research is also needed to reassess any complications or restrictions associated with optogenetics.
