O3-6-04. Optogenetically induced motor evoked potentials in mice

Publication date: September 2017
Source:Clinical Neurophysiology, Volume 128, Issue 9
Author(s): Fumiaki Yoshida, Edward S. Boyden
Optogenetics is a powerful tool that utilizes light to control neurons genetically modified to express light-sensitive ion channels. This innovative technology, which allows for the activation or silencing of neurons on a millisecond time-scale, can be aimed at specific cell types, preventing the manipulation of cells that fall outside a target population. As such, optogenetics has the potential to improve impaired brain networks without side effects commonly associated with alternative strategies (e.g., electrical stimulation). Here, we assessed optogenetically induced motor evoked potentials as a first step in testing the therapeutic potential of this tool. We introduced Chronos, a novel light-sensitive ion channel, into the motor cortex of wild-type mice via viral vector injection. Four weeks later, blue laser light (473nm) stimulation was delivered to the affected area through the intact skull.Results: Under ketamine (100mg/kg) and xylazine (10mg/kg) anesthesia, light-evoked muscle responses were successfully recorded from the triceps brachii and biceps femoris. Optogenetic activation of neurons expressing a novel light-sensitive ion channel effectively induced motor responses in wild-type mice, suggesting this technology may prove useful for neuromodulation therapy. Although future studies are needed, optogenetics may be applied in humans to treat neuropsychiatric diseases.



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