Optogenetics: Therapeutic spark in neuropathic pain

Abstract

Optogenetics is an emerging field, which uses light and molecular genetics to manipulate the activity of live cells by expressing light-sensitive proteins. With the discovery of bacteriorhodopsin, a light-sensitive bacterial protein, in 1971 Oesterhelt and Stoeckenius laid the pavement of optogenetics. However, the cross-integration of different disciplines is a little more than a decade old. The toolbox contains fluorescent sensors and optogenetic actuators which enable visualization of signaling events and manipulation of cellular activities, respectively. Neuropathic pain is a pain caused either by damage or disease that affects the somatosensory system. The exact mechanism for the neuropathic pain is not known, however proposed mechanisms include immune reactions, ion channel expressions, and inflammation. Current regimen for the disease provides about 50% relief for only 40-60% of patients. Recent in vivo and in vitro studies demonstrate the potential therapeutic applications of optogenetics by manipulating the activity of neurons. This review summarizes the basic concept, therapeutic applications for neuropathy and potential of optogenetics to reach from bench to bedside in the near future.

High Frequency Terahertz Stimulation Alleviates Neuropathic Pain by Inhibiting the Pyramidal Neuron Activity in the Anterior Cingulate Cortex of mice

“…Simultaneously, a high-speed camera positioned underneath the platform captured images of each step, which were then transmitted to the analysis software (version 10.6, CatWalk XT, Noldus) for further processing. In this study, eight parameters were identified to assess dynamic behaviors relevant to neuropathic pain: (1) Stand: this parameter represents the duration (in seconds) of a paw touching the glass plate; (2) Stand index: it describes the speed at which the paw moves away from the glass plate; (3) Max contact area: it describes the maximum contact area of the paw or leg with the glass plate; (4) Mean print area: it represents the average area of the paw print during locomotion; (5) Mean intensity: this parameter denotes the average intensity value of the running stage; (6) Duty cycle This parameter denotes the average intensity value of the running stage.…”

“…Optogenetics, as an interdisciplinary approach, has demonstrated therapeutic potential in NP. However, the limitations of viral vector delivery systems in humans are well-known ( 5 ). Recently, evidence has emerged suggesting that high frequency terahertz (THz) photons directly resonate with molecules, thereby regulating corresponding biological functions.…”

Optogenetic methods and technologies in solving applied medical problems

“…Точный патогенез данного состояния неизвестен, однако экспериментально установлена возможность воздействия на его периферический и центральный компоненты. В первом случае в качестве терапевтической мишени были рассмотрены ноцицепторы, во втором -желатинозная субстанция [19].…”

PPARα Agonist WY-14643 Relieves Neuropathic Pain through SIRT1-Mediated Deacetylation of NF-κB

“…Neuropathic pain (NP), a complicated disease of the somatosensory nervous system, affects 7%-10% of the general population worldwide [ 1 ]. Patients who are diagnosed with NP will be accompanied with shooting and burning pain and tingling sensation so that their life quality decreases [ 2 ]. At present, the causative factors of NP is underestimated and the management of NP is on challenge [ 1 ].…”