Nobel laureates unveil algae-based light system to steer brain cells
A trio of researchers awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine demonstrated that a light-sensitive protein from algae can remotely control neurons in animals.
The Nobel Committee honored three scientists for developing a technique that uses an algal eye-spot protein to make neurons respond to light. By shining light on the protein, they can activate specific brain cells and alter animal behavior. The method promises new insights into psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression, autism and PTSD, and could eventually aid vision restoration.
Why it matters
The technique provides a precise way to study and potentially treat brain disorders by remotely controlling neurons.
In this story
Nobel Prizelight-controlled brainalgal proteinneural activationpsychiatric disordersoptogeneticsvision restoration
