Development of an optogenetic toolkit for neural circuit dissection in squirrel monkeys.

ABSTRACT: Optogenetic tools have opened a rich experimental landscape for understanding neural function and disease. Here, we present the first validation of eight optogenetic constructs driven by recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors and a WGA-Cre based dual injection strategy for projection targeting in a widely-used New World primate model, the common squirrel monkey Saimiri sciureus. We observed opsin expression around the local injection site and in axonal projections to downstream regions, as well as transduction to thalamic neurons, resembling expression patterns observed in macaques. Optical stimulation drove strong, reliable excitatory responses in local neural populations for two depolarizing opsins in anesthetized monkeys. Finally, we observed continued, healthy opsin expressio

SUBMITTER: O'Shea DJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5928036 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature