Near-infrared (NIR) up-conversion optogenetics

• DOI: 10.1038/srep16533
• Publication Date: 2015-11-10T09:11:23Z
• Authors: Shoko Hososhima; Hideya Yuasa; Toru Ishizuka; Mohammad Razuanul...; Takayuki Yamashita; Akihiro Yamanaka; Eriko Sugano; Hiroshi Tomita; Hiromu Yawo
• Keywords: Light energy; Visible spectrum

Abstract Non-invasive remote control technologies designed to manipulate neural functions have been long-awaited for the comprehensive and quantitative understanding of neuronal network in brain as well therapy neurological disorders. Recently, it has become possible activity be optically manipulated using biological photo-reactive molecules such channelrhodopsin (ChR)-2. However, ChR2 its relatives are mostly reactive visible light, which does not effectively penetrate through tissues. In contrast, near-infrared (NIR) light (650–1450 nm) penetrates deep into tissues because systems almost transparent within this so-called ‘imaging window’. Here we used lanthanide nanoparticles (LNPs), composed rare-earth elements, luminous bodies activate ChRs since they absorb low-energy NIR emit high-energy (up-conversion). Here, created a new type optogenetic system consists donor LNPs acceptor ChRs. The laser irradiation emitted from LNPs, then induced responses near-by cells that expressed there remains room large improvements energy efficiency LNP-ChR system.