University of Rochester researchers have developed a noninvasive method using BL-OG, or bioluminescent optogenetics, that harnesses light to activate neurons in the brain. This technique could revolutionize treatments for neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease by providing a way to regulate brain activation without the need for invasive procedures such as deep brain stimulation. Manuel Gomez-Ramirez, an assistant professor of brain and cognitive sciences at the University’s Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, led the study on BL-OG, which was published in the journal NeuroImage. Emily Murphy, the first author of the study and manager of the Haptics Lab, explained that BL-OG is a powerful tool for studying brain circuits and understanding the structure and function of different brain areas and cell types.
The key to activating light in the brain using BL-OG lies in combining two important tools: optogenetics and bioluminescence. Optogenetics is a well-established technique that uses light to control brain cells, while bioluminescence is the chemical reaction that gives fireflies their glow. By combining these tools with an organic substance called luciferin, researchers can create a material that activates optogenetics and modulates cellular response in the brain without the need for physical light sources. Previous research by Gomez-Ramirez has shown that luciferin is safe for use in the body. The researchers at the Haptics Lab tested BL-OG in mice by injecting luciferin into a specific brain region and found that the effects of BL-OG could be controlled by adjusting the dosage of luciferin.
One of the main advantages of BL-OG is that it eliminates the need for implanted devices in the brain to deliver physical light, reducing the risk of complications like infection. According to Gomez-Ramirez, this noninvasive method could be a game-changer in both research labs and clinical settings. By mapping the important parameters of using BL-OG, researchers can fine-tune the desired effects based on specific needs and requirements. Additionally, the bioluminescent activity of BL-OG allows researchers to track neuromodulation effects, providing valuable insights into how the brain functions. This research was supported by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, showcasing the potential of BL-OG as a powerful tool for understanding and manipulating brain activity.
With the ability to control brain activation through noninvasive means, BL-OG opens up new possibilities for studying neural circuits and developing innovative treatments for neurological disorders. By activating neurons in the brain using light, researchers can explore the complexities of brain function and potentially develop new therapies for conditions like Parkinson’s disease. The rapid effects of BL-OG in the brain, combined with the ability to scale dosages of luciferin, offer a versatile tool for researchers to explore the brain in a safe and efficient manner. This research highlights the potential of BL-OG as a transformative technology that could shape the future of neuroscience and clinical neuroscience.