Probing Neural Transplant Networks In Vivo with Optogenetics and Optogenetic fMRI

Joint Authors

Weitz, Andrew J.
Lee, Jin Hyung

Source

Stem Cells International

Issue

Vol. 2016, Issue 2016 (31 Dec. 2015), pp.1-7, 7 p.

Publisher

Hindawi Publishing Corporation

Publication Date

2016-05-12

Country of Publication

Egypt

No. of Pages

7

Abstract EN

Understanding how stem cell-derived neurons functionally integrate into the brain upon transplantation has been a long sought-after goal of regenerative medicine.

However, methodological limitations have stood as a barrier, preventing key insight into this fundamental problem.

A recently developed technology, termed optogenetic functional magnetic resonance imaging (ofMRI), offers a possible solution.

By combining targeted activation of transplanted neurons with large-scale, noninvasive measurements of brain activity, ofMRI can directly visualize the effect of engrafted neurons firing on downstream regions.

Importantly, this tool can be used to identify not only whether transplanted neurons have functionally integrated into the brain, but also which regions they influence and how.

Furthermore, the precise control afforded over activation enables the input-output properties of engrafted neurons to be systematically studied.

This review summarizes the efforts in stem cell biology and neuroimaging that made this development possible and outlines its potential applications for improving and optimizing stem cell-based therapies in the future.

American Psychological Association (APA)

Weitz, Andrew J.& Lee, Jin Hyung. 2016. Probing Neural Transplant Networks In Vivo with Optogenetics and Optogenetic fMRI. Stem Cells International،Vol. 2016, no. 2016, pp.1-7.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-1117295

Modern Language Association (MLA)

Weitz, Andrew J.& Lee, Jin Hyung. Probing Neural Transplant Networks In Vivo with Optogenetics and Optogenetic fMRI. Stem Cells International Vol. 2016, no. 2016 (2015), pp.1-7.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-1117295

American Medical Association (AMA)

Weitz, Andrew J.& Lee, Jin Hyung. Probing Neural Transplant Networks In Vivo with Optogenetics and Optogenetic fMRI. Stem Cells International. 2016. Vol. 2016, no. 2016, pp.1-7.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-1117295

Data Type

Journal Articles

Language

English

Notes

Includes bibliographical references

Record ID

BIM-1117295