光遗传学以其基因编码,单一成分以及可以在复杂的组织中调控特定细胞的特点已经在神经科学研究中产生了深远的影响。随着光敏感蛋白的不断优化和多样化,各个生命科学领域都在尝试使用这一先进的技术手段解决问题。声音信号在耳蜗内经过毛细胞换能后在螺旋神经节编码成电信号传入中枢。听力受损后,通过人工耳蜗的电极刺激螺旋神经节可以部分地恢复一定的听力,但会影响声音的分辨率。光学刺激选择性聚焦可以改善电刺激的局限,增加声音编码的分辨率。本文回顾了光遗传技术在听觉研究中的应用以及在未来科学研究和临床转化的前景。
Optogenentics involves genetic coding, features a single-component approach and can modulate selected cells in complex tissues. It has made a profound impact on neuroscience research. As opsins continue to be optimized and diversified, application of optogenetic tools has been attempted in every field of life science to different organism models.Sound signals are transduced via hair cells in the cochlea, encoded as electric signals by spiral ganglion neurons(SGNs),and eventually transmitted to the auditory center. In individuals with deafness, hearing can be partially restored by electric stimulation of SGNs, although sometimes with poor temporal and intensity resolution. Optical stimulation can be selectively focused, which may greatly improve the resolution of sound coding compared to electric stimulation. This paper reviews applications of optogenentic technology in auditory research and its potentials in future scientific research and clinical utilities.