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The scientist Ernst Bamberg describes optogenetics as “…the use of genetically encoded light-activated proteins for manipulation of cells in an almost noninvasive way by light”. Optogenetic tools have been used in increasingly sophisticated ways for the last 15 years to study and manipulate cells as well as animal behavior. This discussion is prompted by the recent advancement of optogenetic technologies into clinical trials. Several resources have been gathered to help you understand how this genetic technology works, as well as its current and future applications. It is recommended that you review the sources in the order that they are listed below. Begin with the Scientific American Article from 2010 (this is a slightly older source that provides a great background on how the technology works). The final reading is a chapter regarding the use of Optogenetics in Memory Research and can be skimmed; don’t get bogged down in the technical details. Discussion Topic: Optogenetics In your first post you will respond to each of the following three (3) questions: What potential benefits do optogenetic techniques provide over traditional pharmaceutical approaches? What are the disadvantages? Discuss a disease (or type of disease) that you think is particularly well suited for treatment with optogenetic technology. Why do you think so? Thinking about the application of altering memories, how do you envision this technology being helpful? Can you imagine its misuse? Sources: Readings, Video and Podcast (review in the order listed): Deisseroth K. Controlling the brain with light. Scientific American. 2010; (November):8. SciShow. Optogenetics: Using light to control your brain [Video]. YouTube. Published March 1, 2018. Accessed October 25, 2018. Williams S. Optogenetic therapies move closer to clinical use. The Scientist. 2017; (November):5. Raz G. Steve Ramirez: If we could erase memories … should we? NPR’s TED Radio Hour. 2017. Accessed October 25, 2018. Regev, Limor & Goshen, Inbal. (2018). Employing Optogenetics in Memory Research. 10.1007/978-1-4939-7417-7_12
