By introducing genes for light-sensitive proteins into specific brain cells, it is possible to control neural activity and even behavior with the flash of a light.

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Optogenetics: A Light Switch for Neurons

by Julie Pryor |

Categories: Cellular & Molecular Neuroscience, Neurotechnology, Systems Neuroscience, Ed Boyden, Feng Zhang

By introducing genes for light-sensitive proteins into specific brain cells, it is possible to control neural activity and even behavior with the flash of a light.

To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video

This animation illustrates optogenetics — a radical new technology for controlling brain activity with light. Ed Boyden, the co-inventor of this technology, continues to develop new technologies for controlling brain activity.

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