Optogenetics: Tools for Controlling and Monitoring Neuronal Activity: Preface

Thomas Knopfel, Edward S. Boyden

Research output: Chapter in book/report/conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

2 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of a book that discusses several papers presented at the symposium Towards the Second Generation of Optogenetic Tools held in California. The book describes the recent inventions in the field of optogenetic tools. Tools for observing and controlling specific molecular or physiological pathways in intact cells and tissues are opening up new frontiers in the understanding and engineering of complex biological systems and even pointing the way toward novel kinds of therapy and prosthetic for treating human disease. One of the most popular strategies is to utilize an “optogenetic” strategy—namely, to create a genetically encoded optical reporter of biological activity, or a light-driven actuator of biological signaling, and then to express the gene that encodes for this molecule in a specific cell or set of cells, often within an intact tissue or organism.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationOptogenetics
Subtitle of host publicationTools for Controlling and Monitoring Neuronal Activity
EditorsThomas Knöpfel, Edward S. Boyden
PublisherElsevier B.V.
Pagesvii-viii
Number of pages2
Edition1st
ISBN (Print)9780444594266
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 16 Feb 2012

Publication series

NameProgress in Brain Research
PublisherElsevier B.V.
Volume196
ISSN (Print)0079-6123
ISSN (Electronic)1875-7855

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