Wireless Optogenetics
Wireless Optogenetics - Related Videos
07:52
In Vivo Wireless Optogenetic Control of Skilled Motor Behavior
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2021
The present protocol describes how to use wireless optogenetics combined with high-speed videography in a single pellet reach-to-grasp task to characterize the neural circuits involved in the performance of skilled motor behavior in freely moving mice.
06:36
Optrode Array for Simultaneous Optogenetic Modulation and Electrical Neural Recording
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2022
Here, we present the fabrication method of an optrode system with optical fibers for light delivery and an electrode array for neural recording. In vivo experiments with transgenic mice expressing channelrhodopsin-2 show the feasibility of the system for simultaneous optogenetic stimulation and electrophysiological recording.
07:13
Implantation and Control of Wireless, Battery-free Systems for Peripheral Nerve Interfacing
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Cited by 4 •
2021
This is a protocol for the surgical implantation and operation of a wirelessly powered interface for peripheral nerves. We demonstrate the utility of this approach with examples from nerve stimulators placed on either the rat sciatic or phrenic nerve.
05:32
A Detailed Protocol for Perspiration Monitoring Using a Novel, Small, Wireless Device
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Cited by 1 •
2016
Recently, we developed a small wireless device for perspiration monitoring. In this article, we present detailed protocols on how to use the device for perspiration monitoring with an example of the sympathetic activity test.
06:06
Optogenetic Functional MRI
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Cited by 15 •
2016
This protocol describes the steps and data analysis required to successfully perform optogenetic functional magnetic resonance imaging (ofMRI). ofMRI is a novel technique that combines high-field fMRI readout with optogenetic stimulation, allowing for cell type-specific mapping of functional neural circuits and their dynamics across the whole living brain.
FAQs
Opsins provide the light-sensitive control point in genetically targeted neurons. When the implanted light source delivers an appropriate wavelength, the opsin changes ion conductance across the cell membrane. Depending on the expressed light-sensitive protein, this change can increase or suppress neuronal activity, allowing investigators to test how selected cells influence a circuit.
The delivered wavelength determines whether the light-sensitive opsin responds and therefore whether neuronal ion conductance changes. Matching the light to the expressed opsin is essential for producing the intended activation or inhibition. This relationship lets experiments connect a controlled optical stimulus with subsequent changes in circuit activity, physiology, or behavior.
Its major experimental advantage is the removal of a physical connection between the animal and external equipment during stimulation. That reduction in constraint allows neural circuits to be manipulated while animals move more freely, making it better suited for examining complex behaviors and brain-related processes in settings that are less affected by tethering.
A typical experiment must coordinate genetic targeting of selected neurons, implantation of a remotely controlled light source, delivery of the wavelength matched to the expressed opsin, and observation of the resulting response. Researchers can then pair stimulation with behavioral, physiological, or network-level recording to relate circuit manipulation to measurable outcomes.
The resulting effects can be assessed at several levels rather than through behavior alone. Investigators may examine changes in behavior, physiology, or broader network function after triggering the implanted device. Combining these readouts helps determine how manipulating a defined neuronal population influences the animal and the activity of connected neural systems.
Wireless optogenetics is particularly useful when the research question concerns freely moving animals, complex behaviors, or brain disorders. It enables investigators to manipulate genetically selected circuits without the physical constraints of wired equipment, while still examining behavioral and neural consequences. This makes circuit-level experiments more compatible with naturalistic movement and interaction.