Optogenetic Approaches in Neuroscience

The recently introduced term 'optogenetics' describes a variety of techniques for expressing genes in nerve cells that render them responsive to light. This approach makes use of light-sensitive channel proteins that can be used to manipulate neuronal function. Using genetic strategies, these channel proteins can be expressed in neurons defined by a common genetic identity, which can then be selectively activated or silenced through illumination. In this minireview, we shall describe the basic principles of such manipulative optogenetic approaches in neuroscience and summarize how these tools are being exploited to investigate neuronal circuits and behavior.