Optogenetics, a brand new field of research in which living,
cortical neurons and other cells can be manipulated or
controlled with optical technology (namely fiber optic cables),
has been heralded as the next big thing for treating such things
as heart conditions, paralysis, and even diabetes. Up until now,
however, they've only been able to test this technique on
rodents — but a recent breakthrough in which scientists were
able to control monkeys' brains with light has shown that the
concept also applies to humans — an important piece of insight
that could lead to dramatic new treatments for cognitive
disorders. The concept behind optogenetics is remarkable. The
first step in the process is to deliver a gene into brain cells,
and this is done by injecting an animal with a special virus.
Once delivered, the gene produces a series of light-responsive
proteins. These proteins are then either activated or disabled
by fiber optic cables that are inserted into the brain.
Scientists, including optogenetics pioneer