Discovered little more than a decade ago, optogenetics - a revolutionary technique combining genetic and optical methods to observe and control the function of neurons - is now a widely used research tool. Optogenetics-driven research has led to insights into Parkinson's disease and other neurological and psychiatric disorders. With contributions from leaders and innovators from both academia and industry, this volume explores the discovery and application of optogenetics, from the basic science to its potential clinical use. Chapters cover a range of optogenetics applications, including for brain circuits, plasticity, memory, learning, sleep, vision and neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. Providing authoritative coverage of the huge potential that optogenetics research carries, this is an ideal resource for researchers and graduate students, as well as for those working in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries and in a clinical setting.

'Optogenetics has transformed neuroscience and has become a key element of the toolkit used by thousands of labs worldwide. If anyone needs convincing that the field of optogenetics has come of age, this book provides compelling evidence. Written by leading experts in the field and covering the gamut of optogenetics research from tool development and use in basic research through to translational applications, Optogenetics exemplifies how this technique now illuminates all areas of neuroscience research.'

Michael Hausser - University College London,

''Let there be light’. Or more precisely, deliver the needed wavelength at appropriate power, with high temporal and spatial resolution if you want to figure out how brain circuits work. This volume has many excellent chapters and the right toolbox for the job.'

György Buzsáki - Neuroscience Institute and Langone Medical Center, New York University

'Optogenetics is a unique compilation of articles by some of the key experts in the field covering the entire breadth of topics from molecular mechanisms, via hands-on application tips all the way to clinical use and ethical implications as well as a detailed and accurate historical perspective. For this still rapidly developing field it will become a must-read and core reference for novices and experts alike.'

Andreas Schaefer - he Francis Crick Institute, London

'Both the expert and novice, alike, will find this to be a valuable resource that covers multiple aspects of the Optogenetics field, from its history through to current scientific and potential clinical applications.'

Michelle M. Sidor - Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Massachusetts