PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a system and a method for optogenetic therapy.SOLUTION: Configurations are described for utilizing light-activated proteins within cell membranes and subcellular regions to assist with medical treatment paradigms, such as hypertension treatment via anatomically specific and temporally precise modulation of renal plexus activity. The invention also provides proteins, nucleic acids, vectors, and methods for genetically targeted expression of light-sensitive proteins to specific cells or defined cell populations. In particular, the invention provides systems, devices, and methods for millisecond-timescale temporal control of certain cell activities using moderate light intensities, such as the generation or inhibition of electrical spikes in nerve cells and other excitable cells.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 48
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPTOGENETIC THERAPY