![Fluorescent Biosensors and Optogenetic Tools to Understand Brain Function]()
The brain produces electrical signals that translate into perceptual, cognitive, emotional and motor functions. To decipher brain function, scientists until recently scientists recorded those electric signals using injected synthetic voltage-sensitive dyes. Vladislav Verkhusha, Ph.D., was recently awarded a $1.2 million NIH BRAIN Initiative grant to develop fluorescent genetically-encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) to image neuronal activity noninvasively in deep layers of brain using near-infrared (NIR) light. The researchers will then use these NIR GEVIs to monitor brain functions in mice and simultaneously modulate their neuronal circuits using blue-light absorbing opsin optogenetic tools. This novel technique, combining optogenetic actuators and functional imaging, is called all-optical electrophysiology. It will allow for simultaneous activation and recording of neuronal activities noninvasively in the brain using light of different wavelengths. Dr. Verkhusha is professor of anatomy and structural biology.
Posted on: Friday, December 09, 2016