In 2005, neurogeneticists discovered a method using genetic
engineering that made neurons react to certain colours of
light. This technique is known as Optogenetics. Each colour of
light stimulates a different type of neuron without affecting
the adjacent ones. These hi-fi technologies, surprisingly, have
come from micro-organisms, such as a type of pond algae,
known as Chlamydomonas.
It contains Channelrhodopsins (ion channels) that are lightsensitive, present in its propellant eyespot. The ion channels
respond to blue light by releasing positively charged ions that
change the voltage of the eyespot. The voltage of neurons in
the brain can also be altered if these ion channels could be
implanted into the neuron’s membranes and then be
illuminated.
Scientists inserted the DNA of a Channelrhodopsins into the
membranes of neurons of the brain using an effective
method. Copies of the ion channel were produced and it
soon responded to light, enabling scientists to activate one
particular neuron as predicted, without stimulating any other
adjoining ones. Thus, Optogenetics could be used by
neuroscientists to study the effect caused by stimulating each
type of neuron. For example, researchers can insert the DNA
in the membranes of one type of cells known as basket cells,
without activating the adjacent cells. This could heal any type
of disease related to the dysfunctionality of basket cells.
It can heal diseases like Parkinson’s disease, chronic pain,
vision damage and depression. This element has surely
provided a better dimension to solving problems of many
people in the world.
- Janani
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