17.09.2014Turning off fear with light: Science fiction or reality?

Dr. Olivia Masseck, Department of General Zoology and Neurobiology,
Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Ruhr-Universität Bochum

In the past years optogentics has virtually revolutionized neuroscience research.  It combines methods of optics and genetics in a completely new way.

In our brain information is transferred via electric impulses or chemical neurotransmitters. Scientists now use light-sensitive proteins as light switches to prevent and create electrical impulses or to open and close signal paths for chemical neurotransmitters. By doing so optogenetics can control brain circuits with a never before seen spatiotemporal precision. It has transformed neuroscientists from passive observers to active manipulators of neural processes. Already optogentics in animal trials has reduced symptoms of Parkinson, treated spinal cord injuries and blindness, has activated the production of insulin and influenced anxiety illnesses.

The talk will give an overview of different optogenetic methods and their application in scientific research. Dr. Olivia Masseck will also look at how current research results can be put to therapeutic use in the future.