Optogenetics in Epilepsy
These studies form the basis of our understanding of how to use light-activated channels as a therapeutic option for seizure control. Much remains to be learned from the use of opsins and light delivery, and many technical aspects must still be optimized before application to humans, several of which may prove to be substantial challenges. Among these aspects are investigation of the human immune response to these foreign proteins, the stability of viral vectors in neural tissue, and optimization of light delivery with chronically implanted devices. Thus far, application of this powerful tool has been successful in elucidating normal and pathological mechanisms, and some inquiry has been made into therapeutic applications, such as those presented here concerning epilepsy. The development of a nonhuman primate model is one recent achievement that may increase understanding of how optogenetics may be applied to humans.
Future Directions
These studies form the basis of our understanding of how to use light-activated channels as a therapeutic option for seizure control. Much remains to be learned from the use of opsins and light delivery, and many technical aspects must still be optimized before application to humans, several of which may prove to be substantial challenges. Among these aspects are investigation of the human immune response to these foreign proteins, the stability of viral vectors in neural tissue, and optimization of light delivery with chronically implanted devices. Thus far, application of this powerful tool has been successful in elucidating normal and pathological mechanisms, and some inquiry has been made into therapeutic applications, such as those presented here concerning epilepsy. The development of a nonhuman primate model is one recent achievement that may increase understanding of how optogenetics may be applied to humans.
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