Abstract
Presentation Description :
Optogenetics is a technique that allows for the optical control of neural activity by using light-sensitive ion channels or pumps derived from algae or bacteria, as well as other optogenetic tools (e.g. vertebrate opsins). The expression of light-sensitive microbial opsins in retinae of mice and non-human primates holds promise in restoring visual responses in retinal degenerative diseases. However, a major drawback of an optogenetic approach is that it can only restore the function of remaining cells, but it cannot renew degenerated neural structures. In my presentation, I will describe how we combine optogenetics with stem cell therapy to restore function and structure in mouse retina, and I will summarize recent advances in the translation of cell-type specific optogenetic vision restoration approaches from mice to primates.
This abstract was presented at the 2019 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Vancouver, Canada, April 28 - May 2, 2019.