Optogenetics experiment uses light to control muscles

Light sensitive proteins have been used to control the muscles in mice, opening the door for optogenetics to stimulate neurons with light.

Investigators from Stanford University inserted a gene for a protein that can stimulate electrical activity in a cell. By orchestrating the production of the neurons and stimulation of cells with light, the researchers say they were able to control animals' neural activity. Light-triggered muscle contractions were similar to normal contractions and much more effective than electrical stimulation.

By changing the intensity and tempo of the light stimulation, the researchers say they were also able to target specific fibers in the muscle, offering the kind of targeted approach that can control speed and power.

- here's the story from MIT Technology Review