Optogenetics has advanced neuroscience by offering millisecond-precision control over specific neuronal populations. This technique combines optical and genetic methods to express light-sensitive proteins (opsins) in targeted cells, allowing their activity to be instantly turned on or off with specific wavelengths of light.

As a preclinical contract research organization specializing in psychiatric disorders, Ace Therapeutics leverages its advanced optogenetics platform to elucidate neural circuit function, support functional target validation, and facilitate the preclinical evaluation of candidate therapeutics. By integrating this powerful technology with our extensive disease-relevant cell and animal models, we provide end-to-end solutions that bridge mechanistic research and drug development.

Introduction to Optogenetics Platform

Optogenetics technology features two unique characteristics: high temporal and spatial resolution, and cell-type specificity. Its applications span multiple classic experimental animal species (including fruit flies, nematodes, mice, rats, marmosets, and cynomolgus monkeys, among others) and cover various aspects of neuroscience research. These include fundamental studies of neural circuits, learning and memory research, addiction studies, movement disorders, sleep disorders, Parkinson's disease models, as well as animal models of depression and anxiety. Our optogenetics platform enables precise spatiotemporal control of neuronal activity and can be integrated with fiber photometry, calcium imaging, electrophysiology, and behavioral phenotyping for comprehensive neural circuit analysis and functional validation.

Fig. 1 Neural circuits regulated via optogenetics and chegenetics. (Lin S, et al., 2022)

Core Technical Service Capabilities Of Our Optogenetics Platform

Ace Therapeutics provides clients with flexible and customized optogenetics technology solutions. Our capabilities span multiple stages, from viral vector construction to behavioral assessment.

Available Services at Optogenetics Platform

Why Choose Our Optogenetics Service Platform?

In psychiatric research, accurately modeling pathological states and precisely evaluating the effects of drug interventions are of paramount importance. The advantages of our platform lie in:

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you are investigating neural circuit mechanisms, validating novel therapeutic targets, or evaluating the efficacy of CNS drug candidates, Ace Therapeutics' optogenetics platform provides customized preclinical solutions tailored to your research objectives. Contact us to discuss your project requirements, and we will provide you with a customized solution.

References

1. Kumar, S., & Khammash, M. Platforms for optogenetic stimulation and feedback control. Frontiers in bioengineering and biotechnology. (2022).10, 918917.
2. Papp, Mariusz, et al. Optogenetic stimulation of transmission from prelimbic cortex to nucleus accumbens core overcomes resistance to venlafaxine in an animal model of treatment-resistant depression. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry. 123 (2023): 110715.
3. Lin S, et al. Advances in optogenetic studies of depressive-like behaviors and underlying neural circuit mechanisms. Front Psychiatry. 2022;13:950910. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.950910