Integrated Bioelectronic and Optogenetic Methods to Study Brain–Body Circuits

Abstract

The peripheral nervous system, consisting of somatic sensory circuits and autonomic effector circuits, enables communication between the body’s organs and the brain. Dysregulation in these circuits is implicated in an array of disorders and represents a potential target for neuromodulation therapies. In this Perspective, we discuss recent advances in the neurobiological understanding of these brain–body pathways and the expansion of neurotechnologies beyond the brain to the viscera. We focus primarily on the development of integrated technologies that leverage bioelectronic devices with optogenetic tools. We highlight the discovery and application of ultrapotent and red-shifted channelrhodopsins for minimally invasive optogenetics and as tools to study brain–body circuits. These innovations enable studies of freely behaving animals and have enhanced our understanding of the role physiological signals play in brain states and behavior.