Optogenetic Regulation
Optogenetic Regulation - Related Videos
08:00
Spatiotemporal Control of Protein Activity through Optogenetic Allosteric Regulation
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Cited by 1 •
2024
This protocol describes the application of an engineered blue-light-activated allosteric switch (LightR) domain for reversible spatiotemporal control of protein activity. Utilizing Src tyrosine kinase as a model, this study offers an elaborate protocol for developing and characterizing light-regulated Src (LightR-Src). It demonstrates the versatility of this approach across enzyme classes.
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.
02:30
Optogenetic Control of Hippocampal Network Dynamics
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2025
This video demonstrates the method to use optogenetics to modulate hippocampal network dynamics by activating genetically modified light-sensitive interneurons in a mouse brain slice, enhancing theta oscillation synchronization and studying neural circuit behavior.
09:37
In vivo Optogenetic Stimulation of the Rodent Central Nervous System
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Cited by 25 •
2015
Optogenetics has become a powerful tool for use in behavioral neuroscience experiments. This protocol offers a step-by-step guide to the design and set-up of laser systems, and provides a full protocol for carrying out multiple and simultaneous in vivo optogenetic stimulations compatible with most rodent behavioral testing paradigms.
08:03
Optogenetic Stimulation of Escape Behavior in Drosophila melanogaster
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Cited by 24 •
2013
Genetically encoded optogenetic tools enable noninvasive manipulation of specific neurons in the Drosophila brain. Such tools can identify neurons whose activation is sufficient to elicit or suppress particular behaviors. Here we present a method for activating Channelrhodopsin2 that is expressed in targeted neurons in freely walking flies.
FAQs
Light wavelength, exposure timing, and illumination location influence which response is elicited and where it appears. After an opsin is expressed in selected cells, light can drive ion flow or intracellular signaling. These events may change membrane voltage, regulate protein activity, or alter gene expression, allowing experiments to connect a controlled stimulus with a cellular outcome.
Genetic targeting provides selectivity that illumination alone cannot guarantee. By introducing opsin-encoding genes into chosen cells, researchers can make those cells responsive while limiting direct effects on neighboring cells. Combining this cellular address with localized illumination supports experiments that distinguish responses in targeted populations from background activity in surrounding tissue or engineered constructs.
Optogenetic regulation can operate at more than one functional level because light-triggered events need not stop at the membrane. Ion flow can alter membrane voltage, while intracellular signaling can influence protein activity or gene expression. This range lets bioengineers investigate electrical changes, biochemical control, and changes in cellular behavior within engineered systems.
A basic workflow has three linked stages: introduce genes encoding microbial or engineered opsins, identify the cells or construct to be controlled, and illuminate that target at a selected wavelength. The design should specify when and where light is applied, because precise timing and location are central to producing interpretable cellular responses.
In bioengineering, the approach supports engineered cells, neural circuits, and tissue models that respond to programmed light inputs. It can also guide the design of responsive biomaterials and biological systems with programmed functions. These applications use a controllable stimulus for different goals, including probing cell signaling and developing therapeutic strategies.
The outcome depends on which cellular process is being controlled. Experiments may evaluate changes in membrane voltage, protein activity, or gene expression after illumination, then relate those changes to the selected cells and light conditions. This makes the method useful for examining signaling within engineered systems, neural circuits, and tissue models.