Activation and Silencing of Neural Networks via Optogenetic Neural Implants

Modern medicine employs contemporary neural implants to treat neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. These devices enjoy a limited range of success by shocking the targeted neural networks until basic functionality resumes. However, the technology has not yet advanced to the stage where individual neurons can be stimulated; the result is interference that can hamper observation of some of the milder electrical signals. In light of this problem, researchers at Medtronic are developing a neural implant that uses visible wavelengths to influence the behavior of neurons. If a few genes are introduced into specific clusters of neurons, these cells will begin to respond to specific visual stimuli. Blue light induces the neurons to fire while yellow light silences the cluster. The light is provided by an implanted fiber optic wire.

The findings from the optogenetic neuromodulator study have immediate market potential in improving the electrical stimulators that are already FDA approved and in circulation. Even so, one of the primary objectives of this research group is to develop optogenetic devices as an independent treatment method for neural disorders. Before the product can become viable, Medtronic will first need a gene therapy vector to modify the targeted neural network. Fortunately, gene therapy is the focus of several large industrial and academic institutions, and the outlook for optogenetic neuromodulators is looking good.

Genetically modifying neural networks to respond to light stimuli is awesome. This project encompasses cutting-edge technology and aspirations and yields tantalizingly tangible results.

I found this article at http://www.popsci.com/science/article/2010-02/new-optical-neural-implants-use-light-manipulate-brain

- Scott Blasczyk, VTPP 435-502