神经时代中的光遗传学技术

Optogenetics in the Era of Neuroscience

光遗传学技术是将光学技术和遗传学结合的一种变革性研究方法,其独特的双向控制具有较高的空间和时间分辨率。该技术通过特定光刺激光敏感蛋白在短时间内激活或沉默特定细胞和神经回路,研究大脑功能异常的机制,并确定行为障碍的病因,为神经疾病的研究提供了理论指导,被认为是神经科学研究的理想工具。现总结了目前光遗传学技术在阿尔兹海默病、帕金森病、亨廷顿舞蹈症、癫痫等神经性疾病中的研究价值,以及在相关研究中的优点和尚未解决的问题,最终帮助研究者探究发病机制并寻找高效治疗策略。

Optogenetics is a revolutionary research method which combines optical technology and genetics. Its two-way control features high spatial and temporal resolution. This state-of-the-art technology can produce specific neuromodulation by over expressing light-sensitive proteins in particular cell types of interest. In recent years, optogenetics has been regarded as an ideal tool in neuroscience. The optogenetic technique can be used in this context to study the functional neuroanatomy of the brain, to examine the neural circuits, and to determine the etiology of neurological disorders. It is considered as an ideal tool for neuroscience research. This paper summarizes the value of optogenetics in Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, epilepsy and other neurological diseases, as well as the advantages and unsolved problems in related research. Finally, it helped researchers to understand the pathogenesis and find effective treatment strategies.