What is optogenetics?
Optogenetics is the control of cellular effects using a combination of genetic and optical techniques. This method began with the discovery of biochemicals that produce cellular reactions when exposed to light. The insulation of genes that code for these proteins use them to stimulate light reactions in other living cells. Scientists have found that the knowledge of optogenetics provides scientists with greater insight into various disease processes. These proteins caused interaction between cells when exposed to certain wavelengths of light. These proteins, commonly referred to as G-Proteins, are coded by a group of genes known as ops. During this time, scientists have found that bacteriorhodopsins respond to green light. Further research has discovered other members of the Opsin family, including Channelrhodopsin and Halorhodopsin.
During decades 2000 to 2010 neuroscientists found that it is possible to extract genes opsin and put them in other hedgesH cells that will then gain the same photosensitivity. One of the originally used methods included the removal of opsin genes, combining them with a benign virus and their insertion into living neurons into Petri's bowl. When the injected cells were exposed to green light pulses, the neurons responded by opening ion channels. With open channels, cells received the influx of ions that caused the flow of electricity and started communicating with another neuron. Scientists have found that other G-Proteins respond to different light colors, inhibit or increase the calcium ion channels and the release of epinephrine.
The research eventually proceeded from applying optogenetics to a small group of living cells to use living mammals. By introducing Opsin genes into the brain of mice began to produce G-Proteins. With these G-Proteins and fiber optics, scientists were able to control the speed of neuron shooting. They also developed a method of converting a small optical fiber into an electrode to provide electrical reading of cellular activities. This pThe brain computer oil allows scientists to evaluate and regulate specific cell groups anywhere in the brain.by combining magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and optogenetics, scientists are able to map nerve activities and ways in the brain. By exploring the complexity of neurological function, doctors will gain a better understanding of what normal and abnormal brain activity. Unlike medicines and electrotherapy, optogenetics allow the regulation of specific cells and paths. Knowledge and technology obtained from optogenetics also allow control of the function of heart cells, lymphocytes and insulin secreting pancreatic cells.