The future of optogenetics...
Optogenetics has already come a long way in 10 years with the insertion of different light-sensitive opsins into cells and the creation of novel opsins with specific properties necessary to answer certain research questions.
However, there are a wide-range of potential uses for optogenetics that have not yet been exploited because the technology is still being developed. With continued efforts to create novel opsins and better light delivery options, the optogenetics toolkit will expand to enable greater use in research.
Take a look at recent advances in optogenetics research here
Better opsins and gene editing techniques
The first opsin to be used successfully to create light-sensitive neurons in a mammal was Channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR-2). Since the insertion of ChR-2 into mice a number of novel opsins have been developed.
These include chimeric transmembrane protein receptors of many types e.g. G-protein coupled receptors. These light-sensitive receptors open up a huge range of potential applications for optogenetics. The creation of receptors for different tissues beyond neurons will create a tool for studying and modifying biological function with high temporal and spatial revolution all over the body.
Furthermore, the development of better gene editing techniques, including ways to ensure that the correct amount of proteins is expressed and that such expression is stable and consistent throughout a sample will enhance optogenetics and make it more suitable for clinical applications.
Clinical applications
In August 2015, the first trials for use of a gene therapy based on optogenetic methods were approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.
The therapy, developed by RetroSense aims to restore light sensitivity to the retinas of patients suffering from retinitis pigmentosa.
This could be the beginning of the path to many new clinical applications. There are still a number of hurdles involved in actually getting a therapy to the market, but this latest step is an exciting development in the aim to make optogenetics a tool for the clinic as well as the research lab.
There have also been developments in using optogenetics to treat chronic pain. This article describes this research in more detail.
Beyond light
One of the major issues with optogenetics research, particularly in vivo, is the delivery of sufficient light to the area of interest. There have been less-invasive and even non-invasive ways to deliver light to the brain developed, read more about these here.
Instead of using light, which has very limited tissue penetration, researchers are now looking towards other means of stimulation, by genetically modifying cells to be sensitive to magnetic fields or sound waves. These have the ability to pass through tissue easily without the need for invasive equipment.
On September 15 2015, a paper published in Nature Communications showed the use of sound waves to activate neurons in a nematode worm. The new technique has been called sonogenetics, and does not require invasive surgery.
Scientifica LASU (Laser Applied Stimulation and Uncaging)
Developed with VU University Amsterdam, the LASU system is ideal for researchers engaging in optogenetics, uncaging or other photostimulation experiments. The LASU system fits directly onto the Scientifica upright SliceScope microscope making it an easy upgrade to existing rigs.
Find out about Scientifica's latest product releases, company news, and developments through a range of news articles, customer interviews and product demonstration videos.
)