Methods for modulating cell function

摘要

Methods for modulating nerve function are disclosed. An example method for modulating nerve function may include providing a transgene including a neuron-specific promoter and a gene encoding a light-sensitive protein, delivering the transgene to a body tissue including one or more target neurons, implanting a light source adjacent to the cell bodies of the one or more target neurons, and emitting light from the light source. Light may be exposed to the cell bodies of the one or more target neurons and may cause a conformational change in the light-sensitive protein.

主权项

1. A method for treating hypertension, the method comprising:
delivering a viral vector to a body tissue of a patient, wherein the body tissue includes one or more neurons; wherein the viral vector includes a transgene, the transgene including a neuron-specific promoter and a gene encoding a nerve modulation protein, the transgene also including a second gene encoding an enzyme that converts a non-toxic form of a therapeutic agent to a toxic form; infecting the neurons with the viral vector; implanting a light source adjacent to the cell bodies of the one or more neurons; and emitting light from the light source; monitoring the patient for a change in blood pressure; and if a change in blood pressure is observed, administering the non-toxic form of the therapeutic agent to the body tissue; wherein the enzyme converts the non-toxic form of the therapeutic agent to the toxic form.