Optophysiology and behavior in rodents and nonhuman primates

Abstract

The combination of optogenetic interventions and behavioral assays allows investigating causal effects of neural activity with unprecedented spatial and temporal resolution. However, utilizing the technique also requires special considerations in designing the experimental procedures and assigning controls. In this chapter, we give an overview of the requirements for behavioral-optogenetic experiments in rodents and nonhuman primates. Special emphasis is given to correct assignments of controls and how to avoid artifacts.