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Sun F, Shen H, Yang Q, Yuan Z, Chen Y, Guo W, Wang Y, Yang L, Bai Z, Liu Q, Jiang M, Lam JWY, Sun J, Ye R, Kwok RTK, Tang BZ. Dual Behavior Regulation: Tether-Free Deep-Brain Stimulation by Photothermal and Upconversion Hybrid Nanoparticles. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2210018. [PMID: 36864009 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202210018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetics has been plagued by invasive brain implants and thermal effects during photo-modulation. Here, two upconversion hybrid nanoparticles modified with photothermal agents, named PT-UCNP-B/G, which can modulate neuronal activities via photostimulation and thermo-stimulation under near-infrared laser irradiation at 980 nm and 808 nm, respectively, are demonstrated. PT-UCNP-B/G emits visible light (410-500 nm or 500-570 nm) through the upconversion process at 980 nm, while they exhibit efficient photothermal effect at 808 nm with no visible emission and tissue damage. Intriguingly, PT-UCNP-B significantly activates extracellular sodium currents in neuro2a cells expressing light-gated channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) ion channels under 980-nm irradiation, and inhibits potassium currents in human embryonic kidney 293 cells expressing the voltage-gated potassium channels (KCNQ1) under 808-nm irradiation in vitro. Furthermore, deep-brain bidirectional modulation of feeding behavior is achieved under tether-free 980 or 808-nm illumination (0.8 W cm-2 ) in mice stereotactically injected with PT-UCNP-B in the ChR2-expressing lateral hypothalamus region. Thus, PT-UCNP-B/G creates new possibility of utilizing both light and heat to modulate neural activities and provides a viable strategy to overcome the limits of optogenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feiyi Sun
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Hanchen Shen
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Qinghu Yang
- College of Life Science & Research Center for Natural Peptide Drugs, Shaanxi Engineering & Technological Research Center for Conversation & Utilization of Regional Biological Resources, Yanan University, Yanan, 716000, P. R. China
| | - Zhaoyue Yuan
- College of Life Science & Research Center for Natural Peptide Drugs, Shaanxi Engineering & Technological Research Center for Conversation & Utilization of Regional Biological Resources, Yanan University, Yanan, 716000, P. R. China
| | - Yuyang Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Weihua Guo
- Department of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Yu Wang
- College of Life Science & Research Center for Natural Peptide Drugs, Shaanxi Engineering & Technological Research Center for Conversation & Utilization of Regional Biological Resources, Yanan University, Yanan, 716000, P. R. China
| | - Liang Yang
- College of Life Science & Research Center for Natural Peptide Drugs, Shaanxi Engineering & Technological Research Center for Conversation & Utilization of Regional Biological Resources, Yanan University, Yanan, 716000, P. R. China
| | - Zhantao Bai
- College of Life Science & Research Center for Natural Peptide Drugs, Shaanxi Engineering & Technological Research Center for Conversation & Utilization of Regional Biological Resources, Yanan University, Yanan, 716000, P. R. China
| | - Qingqing Liu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Ming Jiang
- College of Life Science & Research Center for Natural Peptide Drugs, Shaanxi Engineering & Technological Research Center for Conversation & Utilization of Regional Biological Resources, Yanan University, Yanan, 716000, P. R. China
| | - Jacky W Y Lam
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Jianwei Sun
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Ruquan Ye
- Department of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Ryan T K Kwok
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Ben Zhong Tang
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
- School of Science and Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Aggregate Science and Technology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518172, P. R. China
- Center of Aggregation-Induced Emission, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, P. R. China
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Perry BAL, Mendez JC, Mitchell AS. Cortico-thalamocortical interactions for learning, memory and decision-making. J Physiol 2023; 601:25-35. [PMID: 35851953 PMCID: PMC10087288 DOI: 10.1113/jp282626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The thalamus and cortex are interconnected both functionally and anatomically and share a common developmental trajectory. Interactions between the mediodorsal thalamus (MD) and different parts of the prefrontal cortex are essential in cognitive processes, such as learning and adaptive decision-making. Cortico-thalamocortical interactions involving other dorsal thalamic nuclei, including the anterior thalamus and pulvinar, also influence these cognitive processes. Our work, and that of others, indicates a crucial influence of these interdependent cortico-thalamocortical neural networks that contributes actively to the processing of information within the cortex. Each of these thalamic nuclei also receives potent subcortical inputs that are likely to provide additional influences on their regulation of cortical activity. Here, we highlight our current neuroscientific research aimed at establishing when cortico-MD thalamocortical neural network communication is vital within the context of a rapid learning and memory discrimination task. We are collecting evidence of MD-prefrontal cortex neural network communication in awake, behaving male rhesus macaques. Given the prevailing evidence, further studies are needed to identify both broad and specific mechanisms that govern how the MD, anterior thalamus and pulvinar cortico-thalamocortical interactions support learning, memory and decision-making. Current evidence shows that the MD (and the anterior thalamus) are crucial for frontotemporal communication, and the pulvinar is crucial for frontoparietal communication. Such work is crucial to advance our understanding of the neuroanatomical and physiological bases of these brain functions in humans. In turn, this might offer avenues to develop effective treatment strategies to improve the cognitive deficits often observed in many debilitating neurological disorders and diseases and in neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brook A L Perry
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Juan Carlos Mendez
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Anna S Mitchell
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Patterned Stimulation of the Chrimson Opsin in Glutamatergic Motor Thalamus Neurons Improves Forelimb Akinesia in Parkinsonian Rats. Neuroscience 2022; 507:64-78. [PMID: 36343721 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a motor disorder charactertised by altered neural activity throughout the basal ganglia-thalamocortical circuit. Electrical deep brain stimulation (DBS) is efficacious in alleviating motor symptoms, but has several notable side-effects, most likely reflecting the non-specific nature of electrical stimulation and/or the brain regions targeted. We determined whether specific optogenetic activation of glutamatergic motor thalamus (Mthal) neurons alleviated forelimb akinesia in a chronic rat model of PD. Parkinsonian rats (unilateral 6-hydroxydopamine injection) were injected with an adeno-associated viral vector (AAV5-CaMKII-Chrimson-GFP) to transduce glutamatergic Mthal neurons with the red-shifted Chrimson opsin. Optogenetic stimulation with orange light at 15 Hz tonic and a physiological pattern, previously recorded from a Mthal neuron in a control rat, significantly increased forelimb use in the reaching test (p < 0.01). Orange light theta burst stimulation, 15 Hz and control reaching patterns significantly reduced akinesia (p < 0.0001) assessed by the step test. In contrast, forelimb use in the cylinder test was unaffected by orange light stimulation with any pattern. Blue light (control) stimulation failed to alter behaviours. Activation of Chrimson using complex patterns in the Mthal may be an alternative treatment to recover movement in PD. These vector and opsin changes are important steps towards translating optogenetic stimulation to humans.
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Mirzayi P, Shobeiri P, Kalantari A, Perry G, Rezaei N. Optogenetics: implications for Alzheimer's disease research and therapy. Mol Brain 2022; 15:20. [PMID: 35197102 PMCID: PMC8867657 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-022-00905-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a critical neurodegenerative condition, has a wide range of effects on brain activity. Synaptic plasticity and neuronal circuits are the most vulnerable in Alzheimer’s disease, but the exact mechanism is unknown. Incorporating optogenetics into the study of AD has resulted in a significant leap in this field during the last decades, kicking off a revolution in our knowledge of the networks that underpin cognitive functions. In Alzheimer's disease, optogenetics can help to reduce and reverse neural circuit and memory impairments. Here we review how optogenetically driven methods have helped expand our knowledge of Alzheimer's disease, and how optogenetic interventions hint at a future translation into therapeutic possibilities for further utilization in clinical settings. In conclusion, neuroscience has witnessed one of its largest revolutions following the introduction of optogenetics into the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parsa Mirzayi
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Children's Medical Center Hospital, Dr. Qarib St., Keshavarz Blvd, 14194, Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Parnian Shobeiri
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Children's Medical Center Hospital, Dr. Qarib St., Keshavarz Blvd, 14194, Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Pediatrics Center of Excellence, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirali Kalantari
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Children's Medical Center Hospital, Dr. Qarib St., Keshavarz Blvd, 14194, Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - George Perry
- Department of Biology and Neurosciences Institute, University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran. .,Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Pediatrics Center of Excellence, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Dr. Gharib St, Keshavarz Blvd, Tehran, Iran.
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Yu Y, Payne C, Marina N, Korsak A, Southern P, García‐Prieto A, Christie IN, Baker RR, Fisher EMC, Wells JA, Kalber TL, Pankhurst QA, Gourine AV, Lythgoe MF. Remote and Selective Control of Astrocytes by Magnetomechanical Stimulation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2104194. [PMID: 34927381 PMCID: PMC8867145 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202104194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes play crucial and diverse roles in brain health and disease. The ability to selectively control astrocytes provides a valuable tool for understanding their function and has the therapeutic potential to correct dysfunction. Existing technologies such as optogenetics and chemogenetics require the introduction of foreign proteins, which adds a layer of complication and hinders their clinical translation. A novel technique, magnetomechanical stimulation (MMS), that enables remote and selective control of astrocytes without genetic modification is described here. MMS exploits the mechanosensitivity of astrocytes and triggers mechanogated Ca2+ and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) signaling by applying a magnetic field to antibody-functionalized magnetic particles that are targeted to astrocytes. Using purpose-built magnetic devices, the mechanosensory threshold of astrocytes is determined, a sub-micrometer particle for effective MMS is identified, the in vivo fate of the particles is established, and cardiovascular responses are induced in rats after particles are delivered to specific brainstem astrocytes. By eliminating the need for device implantation and genetic modification, MMS is a method for controlling astroglial activity with an improved prospect for clinical application than existing technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yichao Yu
- Centre for Advanced Biomedical ImagingDivision of MedicineUniversity College London72 Huntley StreetLondonWC1E 6DDUK
| | - Christopher Payne
- Centre for Advanced Biomedical ImagingDivision of MedicineUniversity College London72 Huntley StreetLondonWC1E 6DDUK
| | - Nephtali Marina
- Centre for Cardiovascular and Metabolic NeuroscienceResearch Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and PharmacologyUniversity College LondonGower StreetLondonWC1E 6BTUK
| | - Alla Korsak
- Centre for Cardiovascular and Metabolic NeuroscienceResearch Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and PharmacologyUniversity College LondonGower StreetLondonWC1E 6BTUK
| | - Paul Southern
- Healthcare Biomagnetics LaboratoryUniversity College London21 Albemarle StreetLondonW1S 4BSUK
| | - Ana García‐Prieto
- Healthcare Biomagnetics LaboratoryUniversity College London21 Albemarle StreetLondonW1S 4BSUK
- Departamento Física Aplicada IUniversidad del País VascoBilbao48013Spain
| | - Isabel N. Christie
- Centre for Cardiovascular and Metabolic NeuroscienceResearch Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and PharmacologyUniversity College LondonGower StreetLondonWC1E 6BTUK
| | - Rebecca R. Baker
- Centre for Advanced Biomedical ImagingDivision of MedicineUniversity College London72 Huntley StreetLondonWC1E 6DDUK
| | - Elizabeth M. C. Fisher
- Department of Neuromuscular DiseasesQueen Square Institute of NeurologyUniversity College LondonQueen SquareLondonWC1N 3BGUK
| | - Jack A. Wells
- Centre for Advanced Biomedical ImagingDivision of MedicineUniversity College London72 Huntley StreetLondonWC1E 6DDUK
| | - Tammy L. Kalber
- Centre for Advanced Biomedical ImagingDivision of MedicineUniversity College London72 Huntley StreetLondonWC1E 6DDUK
| | - Quentin A. Pankhurst
- Healthcare Biomagnetics LaboratoryUniversity College London21 Albemarle StreetLondonW1S 4BSUK
| | - Alexander V. Gourine
- Centre for Cardiovascular and Metabolic NeuroscienceResearch Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and PharmacologyUniversity College LondonGower StreetLondonWC1E 6BTUK
| | - Mark F. Lythgoe
- Centre for Advanced Biomedical ImagingDivision of MedicineUniversity College London72 Huntley StreetLondonWC1E 6DDUK
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The specificity of thalamic alterations in Korsakoff's syndrome: Implications for the study of amnesia. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 130:292-300. [PMID: 34454914 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.07.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The pathophysiological mechanisms behind amnesia are still unknown. Recent literature, through the study of patients with Alcohol Use Disorder with and without Korsakoff's syndrome, increasingly shows that physiological alterations to the thalamus have an important role in the development of amnesia. This review gives an overview of neuropsychological, neuropathological and neuroimaging contributions to the understanding of Korsakoff's syndrome, highlighting the central role of the thalamus in this amnesia. The thalamus being a multi-nucleus structure, the limitations regarding the loci, nature and alterations to specific nuclei are discussed, along with potential solutions. Finally, future directions for clinical research are laid out to unravel the intricacies inherent to amnesia. They consider the need to evaluate the physiological role of the thalamus, not only as an entity but also as part of a brain circuit through a more integrative approach.
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Bartley AF, Fischer M, Bagley ME, Barnes JA, Burdette MK, Cannon KE, Bolding MS, Foulger SH, McMahon LL, Weick JP, Dobrunz LE. Feasibility of cerium-doped LSO particles as a scintillator for x-ray induced optogenetics. J Neural Eng 2021; 18:10.1088/1741-2552/abef89. [PMID: 33730704 PMCID: PMC8656171 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/abef89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Objective.Non-invasive light delivery into the brain is needed forin vivooptogenetics to avoid physical damage. An innovative strategy could employ x-ray activation of radioluminescent particles (RLPs) to emit localized light. However, modulation of neuronal or synaptic function by x-ray induced radioluminescence from RLPs has not yet been demonstrated.Approach.Molecular and electrophysiological approaches were used to determine if x-ray dependent radioluminescence emitted from RLPs can activate light sensitive proteins. RLPs composed of cerium doped lutetium oxyorthosilicate (LSO:Ce), an inorganic scintillator that emits blue light, were used as they are biocompatible with neuronal function and synaptic transmission.Main results.We show that 30 min of x-ray exposure at a rate of 0.042 Gy s-1caused no change in the strength of basal glutamatergic transmission during extracellular field recordings in mouse hippocampal slices. Additionally, long-term potentiation, a robust measure of synaptic integrity, was induced after x-ray exposure and expressed at a magnitude not different from control conditions (absence of x-rays). We found that x-ray stimulation of RLPs elevated cAMP levels in HEK293T cells expressing OptoXR, a chimeric opsin receptor that combines the extracellular light-sensitive domain of rhodopsin with an intracellular second messenger signaling cascade. This demonstrates that x-ray radioluminescence from LSO:Ce particles can activate OptoXR. Next, we tested whether x-ray activation of the RLPs can enhance synaptic activity in whole-cell recordings from hippocampal neurons expressing channelrhodopsin-2, both in cell culture and acute hippocampal slices. Importantly, x-ray radioluminescence caused an increase in the frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents in both systems, indicating activation of channelrhodopsin-2 and excitation of neurons.Significance.Together, our results show that x-ray activation of LSO:Ce particles can heighten cellular and synaptic function. The combination of LSO:Ce inorganic scintillators and x-rays is therefore a viable method for optogenetics as an alternative to more invasive light delivery methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aundrea F Bartley
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
- Civitan International Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
- Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
- Comprehensive Neuroscience Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Máté Fischer
- Department of Neurosciences, University of New Mexico-Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, United States of America
| | - Micah E Bagley
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Justin A Barnes
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Mary K Burdette
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Clemson University, Anderson, SC, United States of America
| | - Kelli E Cannon
- Department of Vision Science, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Mark S Bolding
- Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Stephen H Foulger
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Clemson University, Anderson, SC, United States of America
- Center for Optical Materials Science and Engineering Technologies, Clemson University, Anderson, SC, United States of America
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, United States of America
| | - Lori L McMahon
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
- Civitan International Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
- Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
- Comprehensive Neuroscience Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Jason P Weick
- Department of Neurosciences, University of New Mexico-Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, United States of America
| | - Lynn E Dobrunz
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
- Civitan International Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
- Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
- Comprehensive Neuroscience Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
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Barnett S, Parr-Brownlie L, Perry B, Young C, Wicky H, Hughes S, McNaughton N, Dalrymple-Alford J. Anterior thalamic nuclei neurons sustain memory. CURRENT RESEARCH IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2021; 2:100022. [PMID: 36246504 PMCID: PMC9559952 DOI: 10.1016/j.crneur.2021.100022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
A hippocampal-diencephalic-cortical network supports memory function. The anterior thalamic nuclei (ATN) form a key anatomical hub within this system. Consistent with this, injury to the mammillary body-ATN axis is associated with examples of clinical amnesia. However, there is only limited and indirect support that the output of ATN neurons actively enhances memory. Here, in rats, we first showed that mammillothalamic tract (MTT) lesions caused a persistent impairment in spatial working memory. MTT lesions also reduced rhythmic electrical activity across the memory system. Next, we introduced 8.5 Hz optogenetic theta-burst stimulation of the ATN glutamatergic neurons. The exogenously-triggered, regular pattern of stimulation produced an acute and substantial improvement of spatial working memory in rats with MTT lesions and enhanced rhythmic electrical activity. Neither behaviour nor rhythmic activity was affected by endogenous stimulation derived from the dorsal hippocampus. Analysis of immediate early gene activity, after the rats foraged for food in an open field, showed that exogenously-triggered ATN stimulation also increased Zif268 expression across memory-related structures. These findings provide clear evidence that increased ATN neuronal activity supports memory. They suggest that ATN-focused gene therapy may be feasible to counter clinical amnesia associated with dysfunction in the mammillary body-ATN axis. The mammillothalamic tract (MTT) supports neural activity in an extended memory system. Optogenetic activation of neurons in the anterior thalamus acutely improves memory after MTT lesions. Rescued memory associates with system-wide neuronal activation and enhanced EEG. Anterior thalamus actively sustains memory and is a feasible therapeutic target.
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Zawadzki P, Adamczyk AK. Personality and Authenticity in Light of the Memory-Modifying Potential of Optogenetics. AJOB Neurosci 2021; 12:3-21. [PMID: 33528319 DOI: 10.1080/21507740.2020.1866097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
There has been a growing interest in research concerning memory modification technologies (MMTs) in recent years. Neuroscientists and psychologists are beginning to explore the prospect of controllable and intentional modification of human memory. One of the technologies with the greatest potential to this end is optogenetics-an invasive neuromodulation technique involving the use of light to control the activity of individual brain cells. It has recently shown the potential to modify specific long-term memories in animal models in ways not yet possible with other MMTs. As the therapeutic potential of optogenetics has already prompted approval of the first human trials, it is especially important and timely to consider the opportunities and dangers this technology may entail. In this article, we focus on possible consequences of optogenetics as an MMT by analyzing fundamental threats potentially associated with memory modifications: the potential disruption of personality and authenticity.
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10
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Schwabe MR, Taxier LR, Frick KM. It takes a neural village: Circuit-based approaches for estrogenic regulation of episodic memory. Front Neuroendocrinol 2020; 59:100860. [PMID: 32781195 PMCID: PMC7669700 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2020.100860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive behaviors, such as episodic memory formation, are complex processes involving coordinated activity in multiple brain regions. However, much of the research on hormonal regulation of cognition focuses on manipulation of one region at a time or provides a single snapshot of how a systemic treatment affects multiple brain regions without investigating how these regions might interact to mediate hormone effects. Here, we use estrogenic regulation of episodic memory as an example of how circuit-based approaches may be incorporated into future studies of hormones and cognition. We first review basic episodic memory circuitry, rapid mechanisms by which 17β-estradiol can alter circuit activity, and current knowledge about 17β-estradiol's effects on episodic memory. Next, we outline approaches that researchers can employ to consider circuit effects in their estrogen research and provide examples of how these methods have been used to examine hormonal regulation of memory and other behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda R Schwabe
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53211, United States
| | - Lisa R Taxier
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53211, United States
| | - Karyn M Frick
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53211, United States.
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11
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Harel A, Ryan TJ. The memory toolbox: how genetic manipulations and cellular imaging are transforming our understanding of learned information. Curr Opin Behav Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobeha.2020.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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12
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Segobin S, Laniepce A, Ritz L, Lannuzel C, Boudehent C, Cabé N, Urso L, Vabret F, Eustache F, Beaunieux H, Pitel AL. Dissociating thalamic alterations in alcohol use disorder defines specificity of Korsakoff's syndrome. Brain 2020; 142:1458-1470. [PMID: 30879030 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awz056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Revised: 12/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The thalamus, a relay organ consisting of several nuclei, is shared between the frontocerebellar circuit and the Papez circuit, both particularly affected in alcohol use disorder. Shrinkage of the thalamus is known to be more severe in alcoholics with Korsakoff's syndrome than in those without neurological complications (uncomplicated alcoholics). While thalamic atrophy could thus be a key factor explaining amnesia in Korsakoff's syndrome, the loci and nature of alterations within the thalamic nuclei in uncomplicated alcoholics and alcoholics with Korsakoff's syndrome remains unclear. Indeed, the literature from animal and human models is disparate regarding whether the anterior thalamic nuclei, or the mediodorsal nuclei are particularly affected and would be responsible for amnesia. Sixty-two participants (20 healthy controls, 26 uncomplicated alcoholics and 16 patients with Korsakoff's syndrome) underwent a diffusion tensor imaging sequence and T1-weighted MRI. State-of-the-art probabilistic tractography was used to segment the thalamus according to its connections to the prefrontal cortex and cerebellar Cruses I and II for the frontocerebellar circuit's executive loop, the precentral gyrus and cerebellar lobes IV-VI for the frontocerebellar circuit's motor loop, and hippocampus for the Papez circuit. The connectivity and volumes of these parcellations were calculated. Tractography showed that the hippocampus was principally connected to the anterior thalamic nuclei while the prefrontal cortex was principally connected to the mediodorsal nuclei. The fibre pathways connecting these brain regions and their respective thalamic nuclei have also been validated. ANCOVA, with age and gender as covariates, on connectivity measures showed abnormalities in both patient groups for thalamic parcellations connected to the hippocampus only [F(2,57) = 12.1; P < 0.0001; η2 = 0.2964; with graded effects of the number of connections from controls to uncomplicated alcoholics to Korsakoff's syndrome]. Atrophy, on the other hand, was observed for the prefrontal parcellation in both patient groups and to the same extent compared to controls [F(2,56) = 18.7; P < 0.0001; η2 = 0.40]. For the hippocampus parcellation, atrophy was found in the Korsakoff's syndrome group only [F(2,56) = 5.5; P = 0.006; η2 = 0.170, corrected for multiple comparisons using Bonferroni, P < 0.01]. Post hoc Tukey's test for unequal sample sizes, healthy controls > patients with Korsakoff's syndrome (P = 0.0036). Two different mechanisms seem to affect the thalamus. In the frontocerebellar circuit, atrophy of the mediodorsal nuclei may lead to the alterations, whereas in the Papez circuit, disconnection between the anterior nuclei and hippocampus may be the leading factor. Shrinkage of the anterior nuclei could be specific to patients with Korsakoff's syndrome, hence a potential neuroimaging marker of its pathophysiology, or more generally of thalamic amnesia for which Korsakoff's syndrome has historically been used as a model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shailendra Segobin
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, PSL Research University, EPHE, INSERM, U1077, CHU de Caen, Cyceron, Neuropsychologie et Imagerie de la Mémoire Humaine, Caen, France
| | - Alice Laniepce
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, PSL Research University, EPHE, INSERM, U1077, CHU de Caen, Cyceron, Neuropsychologie et Imagerie de la Mémoire Humaine, Caen, France
| | - Ludivine Ritz
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, PSL Research University, EPHE, INSERM, U1077, CHU de Caen, Cyceron, Neuropsychologie et Imagerie de la Mémoire Humaine, Caen, France
| | - Coralie Lannuzel
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, PSL Research University, EPHE, INSERM, U1077, CHU de Caen, Cyceron, Neuropsychologie et Imagerie de la Mémoire Humaine, Caen, France
| | - Céline Boudehent
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, PSL Research University, EPHE, INSERM, U1077, CHU de Caen, Cyceron, Neuropsychologie et Imagerie de la Mémoire Humaine, Caen, France.,Service d'Addictologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Caen, Caen, France
| | - Nicolas Cabé
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, PSL Research University, EPHE, INSERM, U1077, CHU de Caen, Cyceron, Neuropsychologie et Imagerie de la Mémoire Humaine, Caen, France.,Service d'Addictologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Caen, Caen, France
| | - Laurent Urso
- Service d'Addictologie, Centre Hospitalier Roubaix, Roubaix, France
| | - François Vabret
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, PSL Research University, EPHE, INSERM, U1077, CHU de Caen, Cyceron, Neuropsychologie et Imagerie de la Mémoire Humaine, Caen, France.,Service d'Addictologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Caen, Caen, France
| | - Francis Eustache
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, PSL Research University, EPHE, INSERM, U1077, CHU de Caen, Cyceron, Neuropsychologie et Imagerie de la Mémoire Humaine, Caen, France
| | - Hélène Beaunieux
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, PSL Research University, EPHE, INSERM, U1077, CHU de Caen, Cyceron, Neuropsychologie et Imagerie de la Mémoire Humaine, Caen, France
| | - Anne-Lise Pitel
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, PSL Research University, EPHE, INSERM, U1077, CHU de Caen, Cyceron, Neuropsychologie et Imagerie de la Mémoire Humaine, Caen, France
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Xu X, Mee T, Jia X. New era of optogenetics: from the central to peripheral nervous system. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 55:1-16. [PMID: 32070147 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2020.1726279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Optogenetics has recently gained recognition as a biological technique to control the activity of cells using light stimulation. Many studies have applied optogenetics to cell lines in the central nervous system because it has the potential to elucidate neural circuits, treat neurological diseases and promote nerve regeneration. There have been fewer studies on the application of optogenetics in the peripheral nervous system. This review introduces the basic principles and approaches of optogenetics and summarizes the physiology and mechanism of opsins and how the technology enables bidirectional control of unique cell lines with superior spatial and temporal accuracy. Further, this review explores and discusses the therapeutic potential for the development of optogenetics and its capacity to revolutionize treatment for refractory epilepsy, depression, pain, and other nervous system disorders, with a focus on neural regeneration, especially in the peripheral nervous system. Additionally, this review synthesizes the latest preclinical research on optogenetic stimulation, including studies on non-human primates, summarizes the challenges, and highlights future perspectives. The potential of optogenetic stimulation to optimize therapy for peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) is also highlighted. Optogenetic technology has already generated exciting, preliminary evidence, supporting its role in applications to several neurological diseases, including PNIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Thomas Mee
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Xiaofeng Jia
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Orthopedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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14
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Abstract
This is a review of relevant Raman spectroscopy (RS) techniques and their use in structural biology, biophysics, cells, and tissues imaging towards development of various medical diagnostic tools, drug design, and other medical applications. Classical and contemporary structural studies of different water-soluble and membrane proteins, DNA, RNA, and their interactions and behavior in different systems were analyzed in terms of applicability of RS techniques and their complementarity to other corresponding methods. We show that RS is a powerful method that links the fundamental structural biology and its medical applications in cancer, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, atherosclerotic, and other diseases. In particular, the key roles of RS in modern technologies of structure-based drug design are the detection and imaging of membrane protein microcrystals with the help of coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS), which would help to further the development of protein structural crystallography and would result in a number of novel high-resolution structures of membrane proteins—drug targets; and, structural studies of photoactive membrane proteins (rhodopsins, photoreceptors, etc.) for the development of new optogenetic tools. Physical background and biomedical applications of spontaneous, stimulated, resonant, and surface- and tip-enhanced RS are also discussed. All of these techniques have been extensively developed during recent several decades. A number of interesting applications of CARS, resonant, and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy methods are also discussed.
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Bartley AF, Abiraman K, Stewart LT, Hossain MI, Gahan DM, Kamath AV, Burdette MK, Andrabe S, Foulger SH, McMahon LL, Dobrunz LE. LSO:Ce Inorganic Scintillators Are Biocompatible With Neuronal and Circuit Function. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2019; 11:24. [PMID: 31551750 PMCID: PMC6733890 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2019.00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Optogenetics is widely used in neuroscience to control neural circuits. However, non-invasive methods for light delivery in brain are needed to avoid physical damage caused by current methods. One potential strategy could employ x-ray activation of radioluminescent particles (RPLs), enabling localized light generation within the brain. RPLs composed of inorganic scintillators can emit light at various wavelengths depending upon composition. Cerium doped lutetium oxyorthosilicate (LSO:Ce), an inorganic scintillator that emits blue light in response to x-ray or ultraviolet (UV) stimulation, could potentially be used to control neural circuits through activation of channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2), a light-gated cation channel. Whether inorganic scintillators themselves negatively impact neuronal processes and synaptic function is unknown, and was investigated here using cellular, molecular, and electrophysiological approaches. As proof of principle, we applied UV stimulation to 4 μm LSO:Ce particles during whole-cell recording of CA1 pyramidal cells in acute hippocampal slices from mice that expressed ChR2 in glutamatergic neurons. We observed an increase in frequency and amplitude of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs), indicating activation of ChR2 and excitation of neurons. Importantly, LSO:Ce particles did not affect survival of primary mouse cortical neurons, even after 24 h of exposure. In extracellular dendritic field potential recordings, no change in the strength of basal glutamatergic transmission was observed during exposure to LSO:Ce microparticles. However, the amplitude of the fiber volley was slightly reduced with high stimulation. Additionally, there was a slight decrease in the frequency of sEPSCs in whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings from CA1 pyramidal cells, with no change in current amplitudes. The amplitude and frequency of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents were unchanged. Finally, long term potentiation (LTP), a synaptic modification believed to underlie learning and memory and a robust measure of synaptic integrity, was successfully induced, although the magnitude was slightly reduced. Together, these results show LSO:Ce particles are biocompatible even though there are modest effects on baseline synaptic function and long-term synaptic plasticity. Importantly, we show that light emitted from LSO:Ce particles is able to activate ChR2 and modify synaptic function. Therefore, LSO:Ce inorganic scintillators are potentially viable for use as a new light delivery system for optogenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aundrea F. Bartley
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Civitan International Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Comprehensive Neuroscience Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Kavitha Abiraman
- Comprehensive Neuroscience Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Luke T. Stewart
- Comprehensive Neuroscience Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Mohammed Iqbal Hossain
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - David M. Gahan
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Abhishek V. Kamath
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Mary K. Burdette
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Clemson University, Anderson, SC, United States
| | - Shaida Andrabe
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Stephen H. Foulger
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Clemson University, Anderson, SC, United States
- Center for Optical Materials Science and Engineering Technologies, Clemson University, Anderson, SC, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, United States
| | - Lori L. McMahon
- Civitan International Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Comprehensive Neuroscience Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Lynn E. Dobrunz
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Civitan International Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Comprehensive Neuroscience Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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Thang DC, Wang Z, Lu X, Xing B. Precise cell behaviors manipulation through light-responsive nano-regulators: recent advance and perspective. Theranostics 2019; 9:3308-3340. [PMID: 31244956 PMCID: PMC6567964 DOI: 10.7150/thno.33888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanotechnology-assisted spatiotemporal manipulation of biological events holds great promise in advancing the practice of precision medicine in healthcare systems. The progress in internal and/or external stimuli-responsive nanoplatforms for highly specific cellular regulations and theranostic controls offer potential clinical translations of the revolutionized nanomedicine. To successfully implement this new paradigm, the emerging light-responsive nanoregulators with unparalleled precise cell functions manipulation have gained intensive attention, providing UV-Vis light-triggered photocleavage or photoisomerization studies, as well as near-infrared (NIR) light-mediated deep-tissue applications for stimulating cellular signal cascades and treatment of mortal diseases. This review discusses current developments of light-activatable nanoplatforms for modulations of various cellular events including neuromodulations, stem cell monitoring, immunomanipulation, cancer therapy, and other biological target intervention. In summary, the propagation of light-controlled nanomedicine would place a bright prospect for future medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Do Cong Thang
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical & Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637371, Singapore
| | - Zhimin Wang
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical & Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637371, Singapore
| | - Xiaoling Lu
- International Nanobody Research Center of Guangxi, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530021, China
| | - Bengang Xing
- Sino-Singapore International Joint Research Institute (SSIJRI), Guangzhou 510000, China
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical & Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637371, Singapore
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