Optogenetics enlightens neuroscience drug discovery

Optogenetics uses light and genetics to manipulate and monitor the activities of defined cell populations, and this technique has transformed basic neuroscience research.Optogenetic tools are genetically encoded proteins designed to manipulate and monitor neuronal circuits, and there are two types of proteins used: actuators (proteins that transduce light into neuronal signals for manipulation) and indicators (proteins that transduce neuronal signals into optical signals for monitoring).An optogenetic approach involves light-based (optical) interventions and/or recordings of natural neural activity to elucidate the role of specified neuronal circuit elements in mammalian behaviour.Numerous cognitive and emotional functions have already been studied using optogenetic approaches, including sensory perception, pain, decision-making, preference and avoidance, social interactions, and feeding behaviour; optogenetics has also been used in animal models of neuropsychiatric conditions.Animal models for optogenetically induced disease states may facilitate the evaluation of drug candidates.Optogenetics paves the way to novel therapeutic approaches in which chemistry is replaced by micro-optoelectronics and genetic modification of specific cells and in which modulation of specific neuronal circuits is the central mechanism of action.