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optogenetics

·October 4, 2024·4 min read

Noninvasive Light Activation Method Could Revolutionize Brain Treatment

Researchers have developed a noninvasive method called bioluminescent optogenetics (BL-OG), which uses light to activate neurons in the brain without the need for implanted devices. This new technique could transform treatments for neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease by offering a safer alternative to deep brain stimulation.

Featured Neuroscience

·May 22, 2024·6 min read

Light-Activated Muscles Beat Fatigue

Researchers have developed a new approach to muscle control using light instead of electricity. This optogenetic technique allows for more precise muscle control and significantly reduces fatigue in mice. While currently not feasible in humans, this approach could revolutionize prosthetics and help individuals with impaired limb function.

This shows a brain map with the stimulated areas highlighted orange and blue

Featured Neuroscience

·January 27, 2023·5 min read

New Technology May Help Inform Brain Stimulation

A new technique that uses ultrafast fMRI is able to capture brain activity at sub-second levels. The technique allows for real-time monitoring of the brain under stimulation conditions.

This shows a researcher looking at brain scans on a computer

Featured Neuroscience

·January 17, 2023·4 min read

One-Minute Exposure to Monochromatic Light Shown to Modify Neural Connections

One-minute stimulation with monochromatic light activates several visual and non-visual brain regions. The findings shed light on the impact of light stimulation on brain function.

Featured Neuroscience

·December 22, 2022·6 min read

New Sensor Uses MRI to Detect Light Deep in the Brain

Researchers have developed a new specialized MRI sensor that detects light deep within brain tissue.

Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·December 9, 2022·6 min read

Using Light to Manipulate Neuron Excitability

A new optogenetics-based technique allows researchers to control neuron excitability.

Featured Neuroscience

·October 21, 2022·5 min read

Using Light Stimulation to Modulate Brain Waves

Researchers have developed a new system that comprises of a brain implant containing LEDs and gene therapy to modulate brain waves. The technology showed success in suppressing abnormal brain waves akin to those seen during an epileptic seizure.

Electrophysiology Featured Neuroscience

·July 19, 2022·4 min read

Researchers Discover Novel Light-Gated Potassium Channel in Neurons

Researchers report they have identified the first natural light-gated potassium channel-rhodopsins.

This shows neurons activated by optogenetics

Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·May 25, 2022·5 min read

Mechanism Responsible for Information Transfer Between Different Regions of the Brain Discovered

Increasing synchronization of neurons in the upstream brain region that transmits information leads to a significant improvement in the transmission of information and information processing in the downstream region.

Featured Neuroscience

·May 17, 2022·4 min read

Stimulating Brain Circuits Promotes Neuron Growth in Adulthood, Improving Cognition and Mood

Researchers used optogenetics techniques to stimulate specific brain areas to increase neurogenesis and the production of neural stem cells to improve memory, cognition, and emotional processing in animal models.