Non-invasive, Focused Ultrasound-Facilitated Gene Delivery for Optogenetics

Sci Rep. 2017 Jan 6:7:39955. doi: 10.1038/srep39955.

Abstract

Optogenetics, a widely used technique in neuroscience research, is often limited by its invasive nature of application. Here, we present a noninvasive, ultrasound-based technique to introduce optogenetic channels into the brain by temporarily opening the blood-brain barrier (BBB). We demonstrate the efficiency of the method developed and evaluate the bioactivity of the non-invasively introduced channelrhodopsin channels by performing stimulation in freely behaving mice.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Blood-Brain Barrier / diagnostic imaging*
  • Channelrhodopsins / genetics
  • Gene Transfer Techniques
  • Genetic Vectors / administration & dosage*
  • Mice
  • Optogenetics / methods*
  • Ultrasonography

Substances

  • Channelrhodopsins