Optogenetics With Closed-Loop Control for Complex Brain Experiments We�re excited about optogenetics, the new technology that allows scientists to selectively control the firing of genetically modified neurons within living animals� brains. The potential for it is huge, from learning how the brain works to treating previously unmanageable neurological conditions. So far, the triggering of neurons has been pretty dumb compared to how existing biofeedback devices and many electronic systems work. Scientists decide when to activate neurons and then look for certain responses, then again decide when and for how long to shine the light that excites the brain cells. Now researchers from Georgia Tech, MIT, and Emory University have developed a �closed-loop� optogenetic control system that can achieve optimal excitation of neurons all on its own. It will allow for more complicated and nuanced experiments that are fairly easy to perform and may set the stage for advanced neurological rehabilitation techniques.

The so-called �optoclamp� technique involves continuous monitoring of the electrical activity of the neuronal cells excited via optogenetics and using a computer to identify when to deliver light to maintain a desired level of activity. The system constantly adjusts when to turn the light on and off depending on the signals received from the genetically modified cells. The researchers were able to show that the approach works in cultured neuronal cells before moving on to demonstrating the same in living animal models.