Worms and Lasers: A Fascinating Story
By admin on May 12, 2011 in Laser Power & Energy Meters | comments(3)
In order to better understand the neuronal origins of human behavior, scientists from Harvard University studied the response of Celegans (transparent nematodes – worms) to the application of strategically applied laser beams.
These Celegans have a well mapped, but simple nervous system which can serve as an adequate model for researching the human nervous system. The Celegans were genetically modified in order to research their distinctive behavior and to locate proteins in specific neurons that are responsible for certain behaviors, such as backward and forward movements and even reproductive activities.
Scientists from Harvard University designed an optogenetic illumination system called COLBERT (Controlling Locomotion and Behavior in Real-Time) [1] in order to track the freely moving, light sensitive worms. Once the locations of the targeted cells were estimated, high-resolution laser beams were administered to illuminate the cells and to further stimulate neuron activity. The power of the laser beams used were relatively small. The power accuracy measurements of the laser beams delivered to the worms may play a significant role in the results and the conclusions derived from the experiments. The power illumination of the laser should be measured very carefully before it is administered to ensure accurate results and to prevent damage to the proteins and/or the worm itself.
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