A light switch for neurons - Ed Boyden
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TED Talk
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Ed Boyden shows how, by inserting genes for light-sensitive proteins into brain cells, he can selectively activate or de-activate specific neurons with fiber-optic implants. With this unprecedented level of control, he's managed to cure mice of analogs of PTSD and certain forms of blindness. On the horizon: neural prosthetics. Session host Juan Enriquez leads a brief post-talk Q&A.
Which do you think will be more fruitful for humanity: neurotechnology and figuring out brain circuits to cure brain disorders by light or medicinal drugs? Explain your answer.
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- Speaker Ed Boyden
