OPTOGENETIC CONTROL OF INPUTS TO THE VENTRAL TEGMENTAL AREA

摘要

The present disclosure provides a method of inducing or modulating reward- or aversive-related behaviors in animals using light-responsive opsins. The present disclosure provides methods of identifying or screening compounds that may be used to treating mental disorders, or are relevant to disrupt or improve reward- or aversive related behaviors.

主权项

1. A method of modulating a reward- or aversive-related behavior in a mammal, the method comprising:
a) expressing in one or both of two inputs to the ventral tegmental area (VTA) from the laterodorsal tegmentum and the lateral habenula a light-responsive opsin polypeptide; and b) exposing the input to light, wherein said exposing modulates a reward- or aversive-related behavior in the mammal.