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Nonhuman primate optogenetics: Recent advances and future directions

Lookup NU author(s): Professor Michael SchmidORCiD

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Abstract

© 2017 the authors. Optogenetics is the use of genetically coded, light-gated ion channels or pumps (opsins) for millisecond resolution control of neural activity. By targeting opsin expression to specific cell types and neuronal pathways, optogenetics can expand our understanding of the neural basis of normal and pathological behavior. To maximize the potential of optogenetics to study human cognition and behavior, optogenetics should be applied to the study of nonhuman primates (NHPs). The homology between NHPs and humans makes these animals the best experimental model for understanding human brain function and dysfunction. Moreover, for genetic tools to have translational promise, their use must be demonstrated effectively in large, wild-type animals such as Rhesus macaques. Here, we review recent advances in primate optogenetics. We highlight the technical hurdles that have been cleared, challenges that remain, and summarize how optogenetic experiments are expanding our understanding of primate brain function.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Galvan A, Stauffer WR, Acker L, El-Shamayleh Y, Inoue K-I, Ohayon S, Schmid MC

Publication type: Review

Publication status: Published

Journal: Journal of Neuroscience

Year: 2017

Volume: 37

Issue: 45

Pages: 10894-10903

Print publication date: 08/11/2017

Acceptance date: 02/10/2017

ISSN (print): 0270-6474

ISSN (electronic): 1529-2401

Publisher: Society for Neuroscience

URL: https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1839-17.2017

DOI: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1839-17.2017

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