Optogenetics: The Physics of Mind Control

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Optogenetics: The Physics of Mind Control

Optogenetics: The Physics of Mind Control

About ten years ago, neuroscientists gradually began to develop optical methods of brain research. Over time, it became clear that the optics can organically supplement – and in some cases replace – traditional use of electrodes as the primary measurement tool in the study of the brain.

Traditional neurological study begins with a surgical implantation of metal electrodes in the brain of experimental animal, usually a rabbit or a mouse. These electrodes are targeted to specific cell types that are found in certain brain regions. Then the animal is exposed to various external stimuli, and the electrical activity of neurons in contact with the electrodes, recorded computer.

Careful analysis and processing of the electrical signal is then transmitted to the individual picture cells are driven in accordance with a certain pattern. Then these patterns are related to the processes of learning, remembering, processing sensory data and other brain functions. Thus, studies using electrodes rely on passive surveillance.

However optics in combination with genetics – the science, called optogenetics – allows scientists with incredible precision to directly control brain functions instead of simple observation.

Optogenetic study begins with an introduction of the virus carrier in the animal’s brain. In virus loaded gene encoding a light-sensitive protein that forms an ion channel, and then the virus is sent to specific neurons, which are the object of study. (Brain comprises a plurality of different types of neurons). A flash of light from the fiber tip is surgically implanted opens ion channels, causing the neuron excited.

Thus, the cells of the brain can be studied literally turn on and off. Capabilities of this powerful technology are virtually limitless. Examples include: Restoration of vision after retinal damage due to the excitation of the remaining cells of the visual system of the brain, switching on and off hunger; brain training in the suppression of obsessive-compulsive syndrome. However, it should be noted that currently plans to implement Optogenetic studies in humans do not exist.

For organizing this neyrorevolyutsii biologists must thank physicists studying optics. Lasers in recent years undergone a technological improvement comparable to the development of computers in the last 50 years: they now easier, safer and more accessible than ever before. A similar development took place, and optical fibers, which can be bent to wrap, and penetrate into the tiny space. To date, not even professionals can collect and control the commercially available optical system.