Miesenböck, Gero
Scientific American [0036-8733] yr:2008 vol:299 iss:4 pg:52 -59
View Journal Article / Working PaperThe article discusses how the field of optogenetics, which combines optic capabilities with genetic engineering, may be used to understand the circuitry of the brain. Beginning with concepts formed by University of Oxford neuroscientist Sir Charles Scott Sherrington that ultimately led to the creation of optogenetics, the author describes how the technology has been developed. Also discussed are the initial trials of this technology in flies.