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Tool Uses Light to Inhibit Neural Activity in Mice

Diagram showing Lamprey parapinopsin (PPO) in OFF (purple) and ON (yellow) states. Light activates PPO, switching its state and leading to inhibitory GPCR signaling cascades involving αi and βγ subunits.

In a study led by Bryan Copits, Ph.D., of the University of Washington School of Medicine, St. Louis, and Michael Bruchas, Ph.D., of the University of Washington, Seattle, researchers developed a tool that can precisely control and inhibit individual neurons.