Optogenetics: illuminating the neural bases of rodent behavior

Abstract

In vivo optogenetics has provided researchers with the ability to delve deeper into the neural basis of behavior by driving cell-type specific circuit connections within and between brain regions. The diverse toolbox available for circuit- and cell-specific manipula- tions is ever growing. Using these tools in conjunction with established and novel genetic and behavioral methods, neuroscience research has experienced an explosion in the understanding of the roles of specific cell subtypes in behavior. This review aims to outline recent advances in in vivo optogenetic tools for manipulation of behavior related to movement, pain and sensation, motivation, reward, emotion, learning, sleep, and epilepsy