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Advancements in optogenetics research

Overview

The field of optogenetics, a method involving the genetic modification of cells to respond to light, received significant recognition when the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to Peter Hegemann, Georg Nagel, and Karl Deisseroth for their pioneering work.

Following this recognition, research has progressed toward more precise applications. Scientists at the University of Wisconsin are using the technique to map how the brain converts sensory input into visual information and behavior. Additionally, an international team including researchers from Ruhr University Bochum has developed an optical switch using a light-sensitive receptor and a modified potassium channel. This new tool can selectively inhibit activity in nerve and heart muscle cells, offering potential pathways for studying conditions such as cardiac arrhythmias, depression, schizophrenia, and Parkinson’s disease.

Entities

University of Wisconsin · McPherson Eye Research Institute · University of Würzburg · Ruhr University Bochum · Georg Nagel

Timeline

  1. [TECHNOLOGY] 2 sources
    Researchers advance optogenetics tools for neural and cardiac study

    Scientists are developing new optogenetic tools to precisely control neurons and heart muscle cells using light, offering potential insights into neurological and cardiac diseases.

  2. [HEALTH] 2 sources
    Nobel Prize in Medicine awarded for optogenetics research

    Peter Hegemann, Georg Nagel, and Karl Deisseroth have received the Nobel Prize in Medicine for their development of optogenetics, a method using light to control cellular activity in the brain.

Sources

ariva.de · badgerherald.com · newsfeed.zeit.de · newswise.com