The Memory-Modifying Potential of Optogenetics and the Need for Neuroethics

Abstract

Optogenetics is an invasive neuromodulation technology involving the use of light to control the activity of individual neurons. Even though optogenetics is a relatively new neuromodulation tool whose various implications have not yet been scrutinized, it has already been approved for its first clinical trials in humans. As optogenetics is being intensively investigated in animal models with the aim of developing novel brain stimulation treatments for various neurological and psychiatric disorders, it appears crucial to consider both the opportunities and dangers such therapies may offer. In this review, we focus on the memory-modifying potential of optogenetics, investigating what it is capable of and how it differs from other memory modification technologies (MMTs). We then outline the safety challenges that need to be addressed before optogenetics can be used in humans. Finally, we re-examine crucial neuroethical concerns expressed in regard to other MMTs in the light of optogenetics and address those that appear to be unique to the memory-modifying potential of optogenetic technology.

Burnt in Your Memory or Burnt Memory? Ethical Issues with Optogenetics for Memory Modification

“…There is an ongoing debate about whether some ethical concerns associated with using optogenetics in humans to target memory belong to the realm of speculative ethics (Adamczyk and Zawadzki 2020;Gilbert and Goddard 2014;M€ uller and Walter 2014). Our goal was not to single out each relevant claim made about the science of optogenetics by the authors and to check whether they are supported by empirical evidence.…”

Optogenetics for Understanding and Treating Brain Injury: Advances in the Field and Future Prospects

“…5. Numerous ethical issues related to the application of optogenetics in humans, also need to be accounted for [106].…”

Memory Modulation Via Non-invasive Brain Stimulation: Status, Perspectives, and Ethical Issues

“…The crime rate would surely increase (just as there is a black market for weapons, there could be one for TMS; and just as many very good chemists get into the illegal drug trade, so experts in neurotechnology could be willing to implement any kind of TMS application for profits). Even armed forces might want to disrupt memories or dampen their emotional component, so that their soldiers would not be conditioned by feelings of horror or pity when deployed in combat operations (Adamczyk and Zawadzki, 2020).…”